California State Polytechnic University-Pomona Reviews

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Beau from Napa, CA

01/17/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

19 out of 19 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

If you want to build, design, run a hotel, or treat injured animals, you should be here. One of the most well-known architecture programs and engineering schools around.

Tips for prospective students

STAY BUSY! Go to the gym, play intramural sports, go to school events like plays, get involved in ROTC, just do something. Your classes will be busy depending on your major but if you live on campus you need to keep yourself active and give yourself an advantage.

Bang for the buck

The school is easily one of the most affordable schools around, even with the problems of the state budget crisis. With low tuition and reasonable housing costs, it makes it easy to put money towards other supplies or assures you that you won't be in debt the rest of your life. CPP also has some of the most prestigious and highest nationally ranked programs around. For the price I'm getting some of the most desired and useful knowledge in the state.

Am enjoying being here

The campus is safe and quiet for students even though it is in the eastern part of Los Angeles. Everything is a close drive, being about an hour at the most to reach the beach, the mountains, a lake, or downtown Los Angeles if you have a car. It is a little too quiet sometimes though and you don't feel like your in a big and active campus a lot of the time since most people commute to school and leave on weekends.

Am learning a lot

CPP's staff is unmatched in many ways. Being an architecture major, I've met some of the best in the field and have been taught by professors who have been in the business a long time. Some classes can be frustrating if you have a teacher who doesn't take the time to show up, answer questions, and offer office hours.

christian from Fontana, CA

06/11/2009

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

14 out of 14 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

For any student willing to put a bit of their time and effort to have a joyful college experience, studying their favorite career and meeting all sorts of people in a beautiful environment. Especially those always looking to thrive in life.

Tips for prospective students

If you know the college you really want to go to, get involved right now. It is never to early. I advise you to look out for the programs like Upward Bound and apply for EOP if you can, it will help you a lot. Find out about this college as much as you can through their website- csupomona.edu

Will enjoy being here

I am already really comfortable with the school since I was and am part of their Upward Bound program, and I already feel like a student there because I'm so familiar with people there and with some friends who are going to join me.

Will learn a lot

I have a hunger for what I want to learn and I believe Cal Poly will feed me properly as long as I put my part.

bill from Alhambra, CA

Cal Poly Pomona is great for architecture, engineering, hospitality, environmental majors. Also Cal Poly is very affordable at a tuition cost of around $4000 a year.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved with student organizations and clubs, they will make your college experience full and enjoyable with over 300 clubs, you can find one that suits you, if you cannot find one that is right for you, there is an option of creating it yourself. The dorms are pricey, cramped and old; it maybe better if you were to rent a house nearby with a group of friends or only dorm the first year. EOP is a great program, if you are low income, just read the requirements and check a box when you are applying it gives you some grant money each year, and opens up more a lot of free resources such as tutoring and advising.

Bang for the buck

I am appreciative of this college and its beautiful campus, the second largest Cal State Campus, but due to the budget cuts I would have to rate the college just three stars. Tuition costs of Cal States are rising around 10% each year, and many professors are being laid off causing crowded classrooms and delaying students from graduating. Though this is a problem, if you are a Engineering major or a hospitality major, this college is a great choice; The campus is beautiful, the people are friendly, and its a very welcoming environment. Also, every year this college collaborates with Cal Poly SLO to create a rose float.

Am enjoying being here

I am currently a Sophomore and I have had a great first year experience at this college. Though some people complain that the campus is a bit boring because it is a commuter school, I believe in making the best of every situation; anyone can have fun anywhere. I suggest involving yourself in a student club or organization to enhance your college experience. I am in a business fraternity, Delta Sigma Pi on campus and hold the position of Vice President of Professional Activities. The fraternity as well as other student service such as Student Development Learning Institute (SDLI) made my experience fantastic.

Am learning a lot

Though budget cuts are making an impact on the college campus, Cal Poly Pomona is still a great school to receive an education. The advantage of attending this school is that you will have actual hands on experience due to their Polytechnic philosophy. Through the various programs this college campus offers, I am learning and gaining a great deal of experience.

Chelsey from CA

11/13/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

9 out of 9 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

CPP is great for students who want to be close to town but not in the middle of it. It's also perfect for students interested in working at Disneyland, or students with an annual pass. The park is about 30-45 minutes away! CPP is a polytechnic university, so students that enjoy hands-on learning fit in here. The quarter system is good for those who like to take many different classes quickly rather than few classes over a long period of time.

Tips for prospective students

Find a way to get priority registration! Registration at any college is hectic and stressful. Since everyone is competing for those core classes it is a slim chance that you will get the classes you want or need, much less the days and times you prefer. Priority registration is given to honors students and athletes, among others. Call the registrar's office to see if you fit in any priority categories. There is one category that fits almost anyone. Four your pledge (or 5 year for those architecture and engineering students) guarantees priority registration for those who pledge that they will not change their major. Now if you do decide to change your major you can just drop out of the pledge. The only penalty is that you no longer get priority registration. I am a four year pledge student and I got to register many weeks before everyone else. I am extremely grateful that I got every class I wanted with reasonable times without any stress whatsoever.

Bang for the buck

With the cost of housing at Pomona comes a gym membership, which most students use more than once a week. The meal plan is very flexible. Along with being able to eat in Los Olivos Commons, which is like a mall food court or buffet, a student can cash out $6 at the store underneath the commons. $6 does go a long way there. there is also the option of going to any of the numerous fast food restaurants or marketplaces on campus. There is something here for every one's appetite. The tuition and books are steep priced, but what college isn't expensive in this economic time? CPP does have many scholarship and loan opportunities. There is bound to be at least one scholarship opportunity for every student.

Am enjoying being here

I love living and studying at CPP! First off, the residence halls are so much fun. Yes, I share a room, and the whole hall uses one bathroom, but it isn't really so bad once you get used to it. It's great living with your best friends and having a familiar place to go back to between classes. Commuters don't have that. Most people in classes are very friendly, including the teachers. It is so easy to make friends, as long as you are willing to turn around and say hi to the person behind you. The school spirit here is incredible. There, of course, is the pride for Billy Bronco and green and gold. The fight song will get stuck in your head, but that's a good thing : ) It's so much fun to go cheer on CPP at athletic events. There is also Residence Hall spirit though. A pride for a student's own home is obvious from the very beginning with hall nicknames, T-shirts, mascots, etc. A student can't help but get swept up in the excitement.

Am learning a lot

I am an English major. I came in thinking that I was pretty good at analyzing literature. The American literature class I am taking right now has shown me that I still have a long ways to go. My teacher is amazing in that he is teaching me so much more than I could get in high school. He helps me to see aspects of the literature that I would have never seen before. The classes at CPP are exceptional. They tie into each other. I notice aspects of psychology in literature and communication. As well as literature aspects in psychology and communication. It's amazing how much knowledge there is here for a student to soak up.

Lindsey from Chino Hills, CA

Cal Poly is great for all types of students, but for those interested in Engineering, Business, Agriculture, or the Arts, I'd say this is definitely a strong candidate.

Tips for prospective students

I advise prospective students to definitely go on a tour of the campus. You learn a lot about the faculty and the way the school is run, but also the history of Cal Poly. If you do decide on enrolling, I strongly advise you to get a Road Map for your major because it helps you organize which classes you should take.

Bang for the buck

Even during the hard times like we are currently experiencing, CPP's tuition is still reasonable. You get good classes and learn a lot from the professors that teach here.

Am enjoying being here

Not only are the staff friendly, but as is the student body. For incoming freshmen, I advise you to attend Bronco Fusion the day before first classes. This event helps you feel welcome and like a true Bronco.

Am learning a lot

The teachers are very friendly and are quite willing to answer any questions you have during office hours. I've only finished my first year, I truly feel I have learned a lot because of the staffs openness to students.

Justin from Garden Grove, CA

Engineering is what Cal Poly Pomona is mainly known for. So all you prospective engineering majors, apply to Cal Poly. Business Administration is fairly good. Overall a mainly math oriented school.

Tips for prospective students

Be sure to use ratemyprofessor.com and gradecalpoly.com, both good websites in helping you choose classes. Trust me, they DO separate the good professors from the bad professors. So use them. Bring a car for the weekends or know someone who has a car for the weekends. Or just go home. There will be literally nothing to do at Cal Poly Pomona if you stay there for the weekends. Expect to be responsible for your grades and for your schedule. Go to class, as it will only benefit you by allowing the professors to recognize your face, further giving you an opportunity to establish a friendship with them. DO meet your advisor from time to time, as they are a great resource for networking and getting advice for your intended major. And one last piece of advice: Obtaining your degree is your main priority for going to college. Don't forget that.

Bang for the buck

Because of the budget cuts in California, tuition has somewhat gone up but its not that big of a deal if you are on financial aid. It will usually still cover the costs. However, a LOT of classes have been cut and I know many people who are taking only 1 or 2 classes next quarter because of the cuts. So if you do come here, be sure to enroll in the four year pledge program, as that will guarantee you in getting all of your classes for each quarter.

Am enjoying being here

The campus is DEAD on the weekends. Since the school is mainly a commuter campus and many of the students (myself included) who dorm are from around the LA/OC area, virtually no one stays on campus on the weekends. You will literally see one or two people walk around campus. No joke. Be prepared to create your own fun or know a friend who has a car and will be available to play on the weekends. However during the weekdays, the campus is fairly active. You can chill with your friends at the Marketplace, where there are a bunch of fast food restaurants (Panda Express, Taco Bell, etc) at your disposal. There is also a 24 hr computer lab where you can study at if your dorm is too frikin loud or if your roommates are sleeping or doing whatnot. The school also renovated the library, which is also an awesome place to study. But don't go there for finals week, as it tends to get really loud, especially on the 3rd and 4th floors.

Am learning a lot

The majority of the courses I took so far were really interesting. The professors are always willing to assist you in any way possible as long as YOU make the effort to talk to them, whether it is through email or after class.

Go to an adviser or someone who goes here and get the lowdown. They can help, or find someone who can help, if you ask. If I can help, you can email me at punkymunkyJRMS@verizon.net :]

Bang for the buck

If you get a loan but only get the unsubsidized, you will be paying around $460/quarter... plus books. For this upcoming quarter, my books are costing me $250. Get them used, go to B&N.com, do what you can to find the cheapest book you can. I suggest not buying food on campus too much as that quickly adds up. Definitely not as bad as it could be, pricewise, but all in all, if you don't make the most of your time here, you are wasting money.

Am enjoying being here

There are some really awesome people at Cal Poly. Just talk to the people around you in class. When asked this question, I always hesitate to rate it, because I have no experience at other campuses so I really can't compare it to anything. I hate the solicitors seen all the time, and the parking. I really wish we would add another few levels. It was calculated that if all of the students carpooled, there still wouldn't be enough parking. If you plan on parking in the structure, make sure to get there an hour early to make sure you get parking.

Am learning a lot

I had one teacher that almost never showed up and we were given a new teacher 7 weeks in. In another class I had a teacher that was teaching statistics for the first time and did not always know quite what she was doing. However, I do believe that there is much that can be taken from Cal Poly. I was able to teach myself enough of my math class the weekend before to raise my grade. On the other hand, there are teachers that are extremely helpful and there for you. Many of them answer emails quickly, office hours are important to pay attention to, and if there is ever a problem teachers are there and usually have pretty decent suggestions. Budget cuts are the worst. You may like those occasional days where your teacher actually HAS to take the day off [Furlough days]. But when the library is closed and you need to print something, you can trust that you will be waiting in a long line to use the printer in the 24 hour computer lab.

Samantha from Riverside, CA

01/21/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

4 out of 4 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Cal Poly Pomona is perfect for students who like the outdoors because our campus has lots of trees and fresh air and it is very spread out so you can enjoy the outdoors almost all day. Also for those students who like to get to know their teachers on a personal level because the teachers at Cal Poly are wonderful about meeting with students individually outside of class to answer any questions or support them throughout their college experience.

Tips for prospective students

Visit the campus before you apply, for every school, while classes are in session. By going to the schools you apply to you get a feel for the atmosphere of the college and if you go while classes are in session you'll be able to experience a day that you may experience a million more times in the years after high school. Also ask questions, the worst thing that could happen is you decide you want to go to a school and find out their dorms are only for certain people of certain ages or you can only take certain classes your freshman year instead of picking the classes that you want to take.

Bang for the buck

With the tuition you pay you not only get into the classes you need but you have a support group in everything that you do, you get into all sports events on campus, you have access to over 100 clubs, and a convenient health center, which trust me you will use and you will be thankful there is one on campus handy for you.

Am enjoying being here

This is one of the only places I feel welcomed and at home. I walk on campus and I feel like there is always something for me to do or somewhere for me to go where I will be accepted. The students here are so friendly that it's hard to feel like you don't belong here.

Am learning a lot

At this Polytechnic University you don't just get the PowerPoint lectures, you actually do case studies, you go to different schools, you build certain objects, you shoot your own videos, you get a hands on experience that you can't find anywhere else.

Margot from San Diego, CA

For any type of student. This campus is extremely diverse, and there are so many different types of people and you'll definitely find your niche.

Tips for prospective students

Live in the dorms your first year. Opportunities may come up to live in the suites, but the suites aren't very social because they're all upperclassmen and many of them live with their friends and thus have no reason to socialize. The dorms are great for your first year, you'll make tons of friends and meet a lot of new people and they're just generally a lot more fun. Also, don't worry about not knowing what major to declare. It seems like a big deal, but so many people are undeclared their first year of college. You'll have plenty of time to figure out what it is you want to do.

Bang for the buck

I feel like I'm getting most of my money's worth here. The classes are great, I love the polytechnic style of teaching because most of my teachers know my name. The only reason I would complain is because my high school was extremely challenging, and when I came here I declared a major that wasn't too difficult and I found that I didn't feel as challenged as I could be. However, many people here, especially engineering, architecture, math, animal sciences, etc. majors are very challenged and most definitely are getting their full money's worth.

Am enjoying being here

I do like it here a lot. There's things going on all the time to do, there are parties, and there are a lot of town around pomona, including LA. However, if you don't have a car, it'll get a little annoying. Pomona itself isn't the greatest area and there's virtually nothing to do in Pomona, so you'll need a car to go out and do things.

Am learning a lot

I've learned so much here regarding my major, and I really enjoy the style of teaching here at Cal Poly.

Kaitlin from Merced, CA

03/11/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

4 out of 4 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

i would say that campus is pretty safe, although i have heard of some things happening around here. the campus police will escort you back to your dorm or your car if it's later at night. there are these blue emergency posts throughout campus as well that you can press the button if there is an emergency. the campus police also patrol campus later at night. i have never had an issue with safety before, but it has not been unheard of. i have actually heard before that this is one of the safer campuses compared to a lot of other schools.

Greek Life

greek life isn't that big here, but it does exist! plenty of people get involved, but there are not official houses and there are not a lot of parties all the time. most of the time you will here about the greeks from seeing them out during u hour holding some kind of event for fundraising or awareness of something. the people involved in greek life are very involved on campus.

Clubs and Activities

there are so many things to do with clubs! there are so many to choose from in the first place, from your major's club to the pride club to the sports clubs to the leadership clubs to the christian club to the rose float. it's hard to not get overwhelmed with all the choices. each of the clubs will hold events during the u hour and many do off campus activities that are really fun! it's hard to not get involved here!

Great for these types of students

anyone who isn't real big on greek life or a big partier (it's very small here), and anyone who wants to study engineering, architecture or animal science. this school has so many opportunities to get involved within your major! and coming from a pre-vet major, the classes offered are really good and you get so much hands on experience! hence cal poly's motto, learn by doing. if you are a student who really wants to focus more of school and your future, this is really a great school.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

the rose float is a huge part of cal poly's traditions. every year students build a float for the rose parade, and most of the time they receive awards for it (1st place, people's favorite, etc)! there is also the kellogg arabian horse stables on campus. yes, the horses actually live on campus, and they are bred and shown in various horse shows. also, the rose garden and the japanese garden on campus are big places to go and study or hang out. there is a lot of interesting things that kellogg did here on campus.

Bang for the buck

things are expensive on campus(food especially). parking passes are also really expensive. they don't offer all the classes at the same time, which makes it difficult to graduate in time if you don't take a class in time. compared to slo and other csu's and uc's though, it isn't that expensive. the school does offer you aid if you have applied for financial aid (fafsa). i do believe that i am getting a good education and that most of the professors here are quality, but it still is expensive to attend here (but what school isn't anymore?). you get a lot of hands on experience in class (they offer plenty of labs, but seem to offer a lot less lectures), and it is really helpful when you are applying for jobs and internships to have that experience already. this school is still affordable despite the rising costs.

What to do for fun

there isn't a lot to actually do around campus. they have events on campus such as plays, and clubs will hold various events throughout the week too. for people who live on campus, the housing staff puts on different kinds of events to help with stress or just to get out of your room and meet some of the other people in the building. they have an art walk every so often in downtown pomona, and there is plenty of shopping in walnut, west covina, and san dimas. you are 30 minutes or so from disneyland (i would recommend a season pass!), and you are about an hour (maybe less) from magic mountain. hollywood and la are not too far either. there are buses that have routes to places like walnut and west covina, but having a car or knowing someone with a car makes it much easier to get off campus.

Food and Dining

i have heard that the food at the dining commons is pretty good, but i haven't eaten there often enough to say how good or bad it may be. there are plenty of other places on campus to eat (panda express, taco bell, round table, sushi, subway, starbucks, denny's and a few campus markets). there is also the farm store across from the campus that has really good food! it is pricey if you don't live on campus though.

Dorm Life

the dorms are really fun, especially if you are a more outgoing person. the dorms are pretty old and outdated though. most people living in the dorms are friendly, and every keeps their doors open for people to stop by and just hang out. in the suites though, it's a little more anti-social, but you do have a much better living space! you have a small kitchenette and a bathroom that you share with only one roommate. the kitchen is very nice, especially if you like to cook instead of always eating somewhere on campus. there are study rooms in both the dorm buildings and the suites. laundry is also $1.75 per load (wash & dry).

Academic Rigor

i would say that the classes offered here can be very difficult. that is, if the subject matter is new to you, you aren't interested in the subject, or you have a very difficult professor (thick accent, doesn't curve the grades, etc). i really enjoy most of my classes, but it is a lot of extra work you have to put in (some say 2-3 hours for every 1 hour you're in class). most people do not graduate in 4 years, but rather 5-7. it's difficult (but not impossible) to take 18+ units every quarter. the quarter system is great. i love having only 10 weeks of classes at a time (3 quarters in each year), although it goes by very fast and you can't slack off.

Tips for prospective students

try to know what you want to major in! you can become part of the 4 year pledge that guarantees that you will graduate in 4 years. i would recommend living on campus your first year as well, and also try to get involved in at least one club (even if it's just the one from your major). also, use the resources they offer here! most are free, and can be very helpful when you're struggling with a subject or you need help practicing for a job interview.

In three sentences

the campus is beautiful and there are so many helpful students and staff (and plus all of the student programs they offer!). there are plenty of ways to get involved on campus through clubs or greek life or even a job on campus. the academics are a little harder (i'm a pre-vet major), but i can honestly say that i look forward to every class that i get to take here!

Leticia Ysabel from El Cajon, CA

If you want a beautiful campus full of trees, ponds, grass, with the fun of meeting such outgoing people who care about their education and success this is a great school for you.

Tips for prospective students

You should go check out the campus for yourself to be 100% sure. It is a very green campus, beautiful anywhere you walk. Which by the way you will do alot of possibly. It is a big campus but there are shuttle buses to take you were you need. Lots of hills for sure. Food at cafeteria could be better but there are plenty of other places to eat at: panda express, carls jr, subway, taco bell, starbucks, etc... Weather is nice can get cold at night because of the hills so close by.

Bang for the buck

I am sure we have all heard of budget cuts and how tuition is about to go up next year because of it. Only disadvantage at cal poly is that you have to end up buying books 3x a year which can get expensive but there is financial aid and the education you get here for the money you pay is definitely worth it. It is about the same in any other CSU campus.

Am enjoying being here

Cal poly puts a lot of effort into getting its students involved in different ways. There is welcome week and bronco fusion that really get the year started the best way possible. It is also very easy to join clubs organizations or fraternities or sororities. There is not a football team but the basketball team is great and there are plenty of other sports you can do. There is always something going on at U hour (12-1 pm) either in the quad or the park or student center. You will not be bored here!

Am learning a lot

I feel because CPP is on the quarter system, which means all classes are only 3 months long , it goes by faster in a good way. When it is time to take midterms or finals everything you have learned is still fresh and it does not feel like you have to re learn everything to be able to pass the exam. Also the professors and instructors there are very thorough and always willing to help after class or during office hours. There is free tutoring if you are an EOP student so I recommend you apply for the program at the same time you apply for the school. Cal poly has everything you need to succeed.

Emily from Covina, CA

12/17/2010

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Cal Poly Pomona is perfect for fast-learners and students that just want to finish school and get on with their lives. Its quarter system keeps students focused and motivated because it is easy to fall behind if you are not on top of things. If you're looking for a party school, you've come to the wrong place! Cal Poly students aren't exactly shut-ins, but they're not party animals either. Nevertheless, there are plenty of opportunities for campus involvement.

Tips for prospective students

If you're thinking about attending Cal Poly, my first advice would be to earn good grades. It is moderately challenging to be accepted into Cal Poly because six of their programs, including animal science, have been impacted by the California budget. My second advice would be to visit the campus just to get the feel of it (you should visit any school you wish to apply to). My third piece of advice is to take orientation and welcome week seriously. I did not pay much attention during orientation and skipped welcome week. I missed a lot of vital information and I was forced to find the answers to my questions on my own time.

Bang for the buck

The cost of tuition was one of the reasons I chose to attend Cal Poly. Why pay $30,000 a year to sit in a lecture hall filled with 400 other students when you could pay $5,000 a year for the same education and smaller class sizes? In the end, a bachelor's degree is a bachelor's degree, no matter which school it comes from. Might as well save yourself a few bucks.

Am enjoying being here

College is what you make it. Although Cal Poly isn't a party school, there are still tons of perks that allow for a rewarding learning experience. It is a beautiful campus and the weather is almost always perfect southern California weather. There is something for everyone on this campus, such as the Bronco Student Center (which has a game room), the recreation center, and the library. I also enjoy the fact that this campus embraces diversity.

Am learning a lot

Although this is only my first year, I have already had top-notch professors. I love that this school is all about hands-on learning. Since I plan to major in animal science, this is especially important to me because I need as much experience as I can get. This school is devoted to making sure that their students graduate. There is free tutoring and the staff members encourage their students to visit them during office hours for extra help.

Kyleena from Sierra Madre, CA

01/17/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

3 out of 3 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

CPP has a very strong engineering program, International Business and Marketing program, Architecture program, and Apparel Merchandising program, if you are interested in any of those majors. This campus has a very relaxed atmosphere, so it would be great for students looking for that kind of vibe.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure to have extracurriculars and leadership on your college applications, since it is getting harder and harder to get into cal states nowadays due to budget cuts. Also, try not to apply as undeclared- they are only allowed to accept so many undeclared students, and you may get declined purely based on that. Pick a major you're interested in....if all else fails, you can switch majors once you get here.

Bang for the buck

Cal States have been slowly raising their tuition costs over the last few years due to California's debt and budget cuts. However, CPP just received a grant from a private donor, which has allowed classes and extracurriculars to continue on unhindered by budget cuts, making it a good choice for a college in this economy.

Am enjoying being here

In order to enjoy CPP it helps to be actively involved on campus. Once I joined a couple clubs I expanded by friend base, and started enjoying my time between classes a lot more! The ski & snowboarding club is the most popular club, followed by fraternities and sororities.

Am learning a lot

Cal Poly has a lot of talented teachers for several different fields, and they all apply CPP's learn by doing method. Here you really get a feel for the material through hands on learning, and so far in my experience the teachers are always willing to work with you as much as you need outside of class time to help you succeed.

Allan from Winnetka, CA

12/21/2009

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Cal Poly Pomona is a great school for engineers specifically. There is many resources and programs that benefits engineers. This school is known for their hands-on learning; so, it is perfect for engineers to gain experience. Honestly, industry recruiters really take engineer students who have a hands-on type of approach.

Tips for prospective students

One good advice I give to students is to always be social with those around you. Cal Poly Pomona will definitely change you into a social type of person. Don't be afraid to ask for help. Get to know this school because there are many resources in Cal Poly Pomona. (For incoming freshmen engineer students, I advise you to find out and join the MEP program and their summer QUEST program before your freshmen year starts (Maximizing Engineering Potential Program). They help much with networking with upper classmen engineer students and industry recruiters and companies. It will also prepare you for college, I guarantee it. It will definitely help you achieve success in Cal Poly Pomona.)

Bang for the buck

Considering the economy, Cal Poly Pomona is a great quality school to learn. The benefits and quality of their teachings really outweighs the cost of tuitions. You will really get the full experience of college for the money you are paying. This school is definitely worth it.

Am enjoying being here

The environment is great. There are many people and events that I can attend. There are many clubs that anyone can join. I have joined in two clubs, SHSE (Society of Hispanic Engineers) and ASCE (American Society of Civil Engineers). They have many programs especially for engineers. They have a program called MEP, which is the Maximizing Engineering Potential Program. I am a part of it and I have to say it changed how I approach school. Overall, there is always something to do in Cal Poly Pomona.

Am learning a lot

Cal Poly Pomona is a great school especially when you are a practical type learner. The teachers here really help you. This school has a great people oriented environment and the class size is usually small which is great for asking professors questions.

Jonathan from Mentone, CA

08/22/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

2 out of 2 people found this review useful.
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Great for these types of students

Rule #1: Diversity. With such a diverse population, multicultural students will have a fine time here. Also, our LGBT community is strong, and thoroughly accepted. Be ready for a serious learning environment, but also be ready for a friendly, open community. With hundreds of clubs and organizations, you'll definitely be able to find somewhere to belong.

Tips for prospective students

Learn where the buildings are, and learn where the shortcuts are. Try not to rely on the shuttles unless you just can't make the hike. Also, do a bit of research on your prospective professors BEFORE you sign up for a class, so you know which ones to avoid.

Bang for the buck

Unless you're going to a community college or vocational school, you won't find a better deal anywhere in the area. Housing can be expensive here, but it's a lot better than many of the surrounding options.

Am enjoying being here

What can I say? I love the people here, and that's not something I say a lot. Sure, you get the bad element every once in a while, but overall, the student population is very friendly, and despite a local nightlife, there are many activities organized by both the students and the school itself.

Am learning a lot

Obviously, there will always be professors that are difficult to study under, and CPP is no exception. However, I've found these professors to be few and far between, and I have grown exceptionally under almost all of my other professors these past few years.

Robert from San Dimas, CA

Cal Poly has its own police station. There are not many reports or theft on campus. Cal poly is well protected.

Bang for the buck

You get what you pay for like so far my favorite classes are my Interdisciplinary General Education courses where we voice our opinions about ideas of enlightenment, the dark ages, religion and political.

What to do for fun

I eat lunch with my cousin and friends. I check out the events at u-hour . I get tacos from the taco stands.

Food and Dining

Food is heathly at Poly fresh providing student with healthy food and drink. If you want a sandwich there is five subways. Cal Poly has a five star restaurant on campus.

Dorm Life

I do not dorm. Dorming from what I have heard is fun. Dorming allows student to form and organize study groups more efficiently.

Academic Rigor

It is pretty tough because of the quarter system fast pace. Many professors do offer some extra credit or will drop an assignment. The professors usually are well experienced in their fields and can relate their material to personal experience.

Cal Poly provides a learning experience allows students to learn by using diverse teaching methods. On campus there is a community of students and faculty immediately felt. Cal Poly philosophy of learn by doing attracts well- rounded students and students wanting to develop into well rounded ones.

Hayly from Santa Rosa, CA

I'm a bit reclusive and don't care for the people around campus so i tend to keep my activities close to my roommates. We're all a bit reclusive.

Tips for prospective students

Cal Poly is a Commuter School, if you can not commute home and live on campus, be prepared to be alone most weekends. The teachers are human, talk to them, they tend to help you out as much as they can. Join the 4-year-pledge, its gets you the best priority and there are not repercussions if you fall out of the program.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is a great school for academics, it seems like most students are challenged here. My only complaints about the school is that there are few people I care to socialize with and the fact that it is far from my home. However, these are minor complains when considering the great education, teachers and opportunities that these school offers.

It really is money efficient, tuition is about 2200 for a full time quarter but you take as many classes as you want to (within limits of 20 credits). So you can get done fast and efficiently.

What to do for fun

Extracurricular classes are fun, and there are quite a few clubs, including some fraternities, Chemistry club, vet club, agriculture club, even anime club.

Food and Dining

Uh, I recommend bringing your own lunch unless you wan't to eat subway and taco bell all the time.

Dorm Life

I am not a dorm student, so I'm not sure about dorm life honestly.

Academic Rigor

The upper division science classes are difficult. Be sure to stagger effectively if you are a science major.

Tips for prospective students

The classes that Cal Poly offers are extensive so don't be afraid to ask your counselor about anything at all. Also, they offer many one credit classes that are fun and take little time to go to (like karate or archery) so be sure to take some fun classes as well or you'll easily be overwhelmed by your workload like I was my first quarter.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is an exceptional college that has made me, as a transfer Community college student, feel welcome on it's campus. Transferring can be difficult, but my counselor makes me feel in control of my classes and helps me even when I make mistakes in my classes or scheduling. There are plenty of work opportunities on campus, and the campus itself really is lovely.

Francesca from Anderson, CA

02/27/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Tips for prospective students

For those who are interested in hands-on learning curriculum, Cal Poly Pomona is the school for you. It requires you to be responsible for your time, your homework and any other activities you are involved in. Definitely take lots of notes during your lectures as well. It helps me to remember key thoughts and events. Good luck!

Am enjoying being here

Cal Poly Pomona requires all freshmen to reside on campus; however, if you live close by, you can stay there. I have grandparents that live roughly a half an hour away, but I chose to stay on campus, and it has been the greatest experience of my life. I have made so many friends, and it has given me the opportunity to become involved in different on campus activities: IHC (Interhall Council), and a Senator of my hall.

Am learning a lot

This University holds a mass majority of varied classes and majors, and every single one holds great interest to different students. I am a biology major, and I have enjoyed every single day in my bio lecture and lab classes. The General Education classes are great too. It does take time and management skills to excel in Cal Poly Pomona, but everyone can do it.

Brittaney

Self sufficient learners. People who do not really want to attend class (GE level).

Tips for prospective students

Pay ATTENTION...take extra notes from the text book outside of class! Some classes are a lot harder than others, it is important to figure that out in the first week.

Bang for the buck

It is a good education and you get it fairly cheap in comparison to most schools that you can get into right now so I think it would be worth it.

Am enjoying being here

It is difficult to ask questions of professors when there are so many students in the class and the professors are rushing to get through the lecture before time runs out. I enjoy the campus, I don't enjoy the classes.

Am learning a lot

I have learned a lot in my time at Cal Poly, but I have also struggled because of how large the class size is.

Alena from Claremont, CA

Seems safe. There are cops who drive around and a help button every so often. There have been several robberies but nothing too serious.

Greek Life

There is greek life but the people in it seem to stick together. For the most part, it doesn't matter if you or are not in a sorority or fraternity.

Great for these types of students

Architecture, Hospitality, Engineering, and Animal Science majors have the best programs here.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

U-Hour, Tuesdays/Thursdays is when there is no class between 12-1. There are events that go on all over campus and this is the time when most clubs meet.

Bang for the buck

Tuition is around 7k while dorms are around 10k. The dorms aren't always worth it but the tuition is good.

What to do for fun

Clubs open you up to a lot of new people; the clubs also have social events. ASI also plans events but it is best to know people before going by yourself to those events.

Food and Dining

There is plenty on campus fast foods; Subway, Qdoba (Chipotle), Panda Express, Carl's Jr., etc. There are also foods cooked during U-Hour on Tuesdays and Thursdays, like taco's, nachos, cake pops, etc.

Dorm Life

Though the dorms are small, not quality, and overpriced, they are worth to live in because you get the dorm experience and do not have to commute.

Academic Rigor

The engineering and architecture majors are far more challenging than the others. The animal science program is solid too.

Tips for prospective students

Having solid grades will boost chances; they do not look at outside activities much on the application.

In three sentences

The cost of the school is highly reasonable; many things are paid by the tuition (health services/mental health services, club events, on campus events (puppy petting before midterm week!), and more. Though it is mostly a commuter school, what you put in is what you'll get out--so being involved makes the school much better socially. Overall, the academics, campus, and resources available make it a worth school.

This school does have its rigorous classes when it come to chemistry and physics.

Tips for prospective students

For prospective students a good rule of thumb is to interact with your peers in classes because later on you might see them in another class. Keep you eye set on you goals. Do not get distracted with minor things

In three sentences

This school is great. They have lots of opportunities for students to exel in their studies. This is also a great place to have lots of fun interacting with other students.

Melissa from San Dimas, CA

10/09/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

For the most part, I feel safe on campus. It is during the nights that can be a little unsettling. We have the emergency stands all over school, where you push the button in case of an emergency. My problem with them is that many of them are out of service. This is my main reason for giving three stars. What I suggest is that you walk near people at night. It does get pretty empty once 8 p.m. hits.

Clubs and Activities

I love the number of clubs we have on campus. It ranges from sports, to greek life, to clubs that are focused to your major. You have a lot to choose from. Everyone is also very friendly on campus. Just initiate conversation, and you will make friends in no time. I would suggest at least joining one club while attending this school.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

I don't know about traditions, but one thing I learned is that you must never pet the turtles at the duck pond. I guess there is a fine for that. I did not know this until someone had to tell me. If you ever go, you will understand what I mean. There are HUNDREDS of turtles that just lay along the sidewalk. Fun to watch, just makes sure you do not pet them.

Bang for the buck

I can't think of much that I would consider 'bang for the buck.' Everything is worth what I would expect it to be worth. I guess some good deals would be at the bookstore, where they sell some Apple products at a discount. Another thing I may add would be the arcade. You can play pool for a pretty decent price.

What to do for fun

There are many clubs to join at Cal Poly. I personally joined Ultimate Frisbee, which had been a lot of fun. This year I signed up for the Rose Float club, so that should be a lot of fun. Another thing to do on campus is hang out in the arcade with friends, where you can play pool, games, ping pong, and so forth. One thing I suggest going to are the events that ASI throws. They are all entirely free and you can do things such as take free pictures at a photo booth, maybe they will have laser tag, the arcade will be free, sometimes they have free food, movies, and much more. Each time has always been fun and different and I highly recommend going.

Food and Dining

As a freshman, I was excited about the variety of places we had to eat on campus. As time went by, you come to realize that there really aren't that many places. You have the typical coffee shops, Subway, Carl's Jr, Panda Express, Qdoba (which is new and I have yet to try), etc. This is my third year at cal poly, so most of these paces have become quite boring. What I do like, if you drive or have friends that drive, is that there is a variety of places to eat about 5 minutes away. When I discovered this, lunch became interesting again!

Dorm Life

I personally did not dorm, but after spending a lot of time with friends in their dorms (on-campus) I have to rate Cal Poly at three stars. The rooms are very small, but that is expected in most colleges. What I do like is the location. It is probably a good 15 minute walk over to the furthest building on campus (unless you have a class in the hospitality building all the way on the top of the hill). Other than that, since I commute, I really cannot say much about dorm life.

Academic Rigor

Academics, for me, gets four stars. The reason being is the fact that classes are somewhat large. This mainly applies to lower-division courses. Once you begin taking upper-division courses, the classes become much smaller and you get that one on one experience with your professor. Majority of the professors do want to make sure you pass your courses. This is just harder to do when classes are so large. Do not worry though. This, as I mentioned, only applies to when you take your g.e. courses.

Tips for prospective students

The first tip I have to suggest is knowing your advisor. They provide everything you need to know and help you figure out the classes you need to graduate. Another would be to use the resources the school provides. Take advantage of the library and computer lab. Lastly, a good way to save money is to rent your textbooks. Whether you go through the Bronco Bookstore or online, it will definitely save you a good amount of money.

In three sentences

Cal poly is a relatively small school, which makes it great to meet people. Everyone on campus gets along and there are a variety of activities to get involved in. The small classes also makes it much easier to get one on one help from teachers and peers.

best areas to be in is the Quad at U-hour which is 1pm, there is club food events and club organizations. Big school spirit.

Bang for the buck

This school is great bang for you r buck, especially on the behalf of the college of engineering. Hands on experience and not as pricey as the UC schools and private universities.

What to do for fun

My hobbies are working on cars, such as tuning and maintenance work. I enjoy being challenged

Food and Dining

foods offered is Carls Jr., Subway, KiKKA , Panda Express, Taco Bell. We offer a place called The Commons which is our school buffet. Then there is a restaurant that's pricey but good. (over looks the university)

Dorm Life

10x10 cell, jail cells

Academic Rigor

This is a challenging school but makes students eager learn

Tips for prospective students

Take advantage of learning resources center and Cal Poly Pomona. Its free and effective.

In three sentences

Their hands on experience is great at this university. Cal Poly Pomona has a lot to offer and great milestone that would be add to my life. Great school and heavily funded.

Danielle from Fullerton, CA

Love being apart of greek life. Its so much fun. Definitely consider it if you come to the school.

What to do for fun

Go greek!

Food and Dining

Food is actually not as bad as I would have thought.

Dorm Life

I am a commuter.

Academic Rigor

Academic wise some classes are harder than others but no matter what your professors are there making sure you succeed.

Tips for prospective students

Apply early and make sure to visit the campus.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona has a beautiful campus with teachers who truly want you to succeed. I am a current student who didn't think I would enjoy this college as much knowing it was a commuter campus. However, it surpassed my beliefs being involved in my campus and meeting amazing people.

The professors here want to make sure you understand the material so they'll provide a lot of information and steps to make sure you understand the concept.

Tips for prospective students

Take early classes so you can get parking. Dorm so you can have the full college experience. You can also find cheaper textbooks on amazon. Take good notes and remember to look at your syllabus.

In three sentences

California State Polytechnic University of Pomona is a great school. It's very hands on and the professors here are here to help. The classrooms are decent but the information and materials provided are valuable.

Jordan from Montclair, CA

06/19/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

Though Pomona isn't the safest city in the area ironically I feel really safe on campus. Taking a night class for the first time and getting out between 9:00-9:30 pm I was shocked to see how many students were still on campus. The great thing about having classes after 5:30 pm is that students are able to park in the faculty parking lots which is much closer to the classrooms making it much safer for the students.

What to do for fun

Aside from the numerous clubs the college offers there are many different sororities to choose from as well. If that's not your thing then Disneyland is only 20 minutes away and with an annual pass it makes it a great spot to do your homework or shed away the spare time between classes.

Food and Dining

So much food to choose from! They have two Starbucks, a small cabinet of Krispy Kreme Doughnuts that sell for 99 cents. A Taco Bell, Carl's Jr., Panda Express, a little stop-and-go shop that has all the junk foods that one sees at a gas station and then they have a healthy eatery that provides soups and salads. Last time I went here they had a vegetarian soup that they clearly labeled vegetarian however, they also had chili and a few other soups. These food shops are located behind building 6. The campus also it's own food truck called the Poly Trolley and though I have never been there, there is always a line. They then have a Bruegger's Bagels located next to the new business buildings and inside the Bronco Student Center (building 35) they have a Subway, Poly Fresh, Roundtable, Freshens, and a Peet's Coffee and Tea. Aside from that about every other week you'll always see clubs located near building 35 and along the library selling food in order to raise money. You'll always find something to eat here!

Dorm Life

Can't personally talk about them because I've never been inside one however, the newer dorms are near the baseball field (behind building 66) and look really nice from the outside. The older ones are located behind building one and are grey and dull looking from the outside. However, there is a nice pond next to these dorms that the newer dorms don't have and the array of birds that stop by are nice to watch from time to time.

Academic Rigor

I think it can be said for many, if not all schools, that some classes are easy and some require a little more work. However, for the most part the professors give one adequate material that will follow them throughout their lives. These are classes that one takes in order to get a career. The material is crucial.

Tips for prospective students

Definitely know the requirements for your major before applying. The Animal Science and Engineering majors are all impacted so one should call the school and ask the average GPA of the incoming class of applicants from the previous year to see what they are up against. Really enjoy the school but don't limit yourself to just one school; apply everywhere and see where the path will lead you.

In three sentences

Large spacious campus, though older so certain buildings definitely need to be remodeled. Very diverse campus so one can hear many different perspective on one issue and the teachers are all caring and willing to work with you in order to see you succeed.

Mech. Eng. Student from Saugus, CA

07/11/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

1 out of 1 people found this review useful.
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Campus Safety

After the mandatory sexual assault and alcohol safety workshop that students must attend at their orientation, I truly fell in love with their campus. As a female, I completely agree with their policies and totally feel safe. The have those emergency blue bars around campus as well as cameras around.

Clubs and Activities

Over 300 clubs that are always doing something! Also, the campus sponsers events all the time. The Culture Clubs host activities all the time as well. Students have the ability to keep plenty entertained (just remember to study!).

Bang for the buck

I admit, I am a little cheap, so maybe I can't answer this question the best but I think it's worth paying for.

What to do for fun

There's a lot of events on campus happening all the time. On the first day of the month they usually have activities (First Fridays), and the week before finals they do stuff to help with stress (Midnight Madness). There's an arcade which I know i $1 for admission on Wednesdays. They recently opened the BRIC which i a recreation center, there's even a pool! The town surrounding is a little lackluster, but I'm sure there' stuff in Diamond Bar, or you could go to the fairgrounds or Disneyland.

Food and Dining

I wa definitely surprised by the food. Sure, there's some stuff to avoid (for me, the pizza, orange juice, and eggs) like any cafeteria. But some food is downright delicious! Like the coffee, chicken nuggets, and fries are to die for!

Dorm Life

The dorms may be a little lacking in looks, but they are a decent size. The living profile you fill out helps get a great roomate most of the time. There's job oppertunities and activities galore!

Academic Rigor

The classes are definitely challenging but there's many different resources for help. I defintely would not sleep in or skip classes though.

Tips for prospective students

Work hard in high school, especially if you plan on getting into the college of engineering. Also, get in touch with current students and faculty. Most importantly, tour! You never know until you walk around the campus, maybe sit in on a class.

In three sentences

Cal Poly is a wonderful, safe campus. The academics, especially engineering, are rigorous but there are numerous resources for help. The campus is lively and safety is it's number one priority.

Megan from Long Beach, CA

07/21/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

Apply to Cal Poly Pomona. You won't regret it!

Tips for prospective students

Getting involved on campus will definitely help students. Although school is a main focus, one must also think of their personal life. Make friends and get involved. The more you do on campus, the more connected you will feel and the more you will enjoy your college experience!

Bang for the buck

College can be expensive, but Cal Poly Pomona offers many programs to help students along the way. Advisors help with scholarships, involvement, and basically any other questions you may have. A program that I am personally involved with and very much encourage people to look into is EOP. Try to sign up and get involved as much as possible. The programs are extremely helpful.

Am enjoying being here

I love the campus! If you can, live on campus. The community feeling is great. The diversity on campus allows everyone to find their personal nitch. There are many clubs and organizations that students can get involved in and personally, I would definitely recommend it. It helps make connections and broaden experiences.

Am learning a lot

Cal Poly Pomona is definitely the school where learning is done in smaller classrooms and with hands on experiences! With smaller classes, I don't find myself lost within hundreds of students in a classroom. I can make relationships with professors and students that allow me to learn better and feel more comfortable. The teachers are amazing! They are extremely helpful and always offer extra help at office hours if you need it. And even if you do struggle a bit, the university offers FREE tutoring! With all this, how can you not succeed at Cal Poly Pomona?

The tuition is a lot cheaper than UCs, but of course not as cheap as a community college. The money I am spending here, I think is very worth it. Not much difference between a UC or private.

Am enjoying being here

Still based on Orientation, I had so much fun and made so many friends. Pomona has a pretty campus, I enjoy being here.

Am learning a lot

Well, I am currently an incoming freshmen, so I can't really say much about learning a lot yet. But the Orientation was amazing and I learned so much about the school! The history behind the school is very interesting.

Chelsey from Llano, CA

Cal Poly is great for students who like a diverse campus that is close enough to cities, but not directly in the city. It is a great school for students who enjoy hands-on learning.

Tips for prospective students

Join the Four-Year Pledge Program! Almost everyone can sign up for it. The program helps students plan out their four years at Cal Poly so that they do not get side-tracked, forget to take a GE, etc. Also, these students get priority registration! This way you would almost be guaranteed to graduate in four years! ( depending on your major)

Bang for the buck

Cal Poly is getting more expensive, but I think that the education and life experiences gained from this school are priceless and worth any debt. Cal Poly offers numerous scholarships and financial aide. Keep in mind, Cal Poly is way more inexpensive than most private schools.

Am enjoying being here

Cal Poly is a great place to live. University Housing Services is very accommodating in providing housing for all types of students. I love living with my best friends! There are so many opportunities to get involved on campus. A large amount of clubs, sports, and Greek systems keep me busy and having fun.

Am learning a lot

I am an English Literature major and I am learning so much at Cal Poly. The professors are amazing in their knowledge and their passion for the subject. I am also learning a lot from my general education classes. Subjects from high school have become much more interesting. Most of my GE classes have taught me skills useful in everyday life. I have also noticed links between my GE classes and my major classes.

Cameron from La Palma, CA

Great for students who enjoy participating in many clubs and organizations to improve their learning experience and to network.

Tips for prospective students

I know Cal Poly is known as a four year university but don't kill yourself trying to make it so. The typical student spends about five years earning a bachelor's degree these days. If you try to take too many units when you first start you run the risk of doing poorly in all of your classes, which will ruin your GPA. Just be sure to stay above full time (12 units) to keep your financial aid and you'll be fine!

Bang for the buck

Unfortunately given the economic situation with funding being cut from higher education the bang for the buck is basically non-existent. The number of classes and professors are being cut left and right and honestly your chances of getting the classes you need are fairly slim. It's disappointing since the fees are continuing to rise.

Am enjoying being here

The atmosphere is not only one of acceptance but of encouragement; encouragement to put yourself out there into as many different groups as possible, network, and just make friends in general. Not to mention the campus is beautiful any time of day.

Am learning a lot

The professors here are some of the brightest in their fields, as far as the engineering and sciences go. They might not always be able to get their point across but when that happens there are always plenty of student study groups to help you with material.

Yazmin from El Monte, CA

09/22/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Tips for prospective students

The councilors are some of the most helpful people to know here at college, they help you find out exactly what classes are needed for your specific major and do their best to help you graduate as fast as you can. Definitely a good idea to get to know them as soon as you can. Also, go check out some of the cultural clubs, people in there are always inviting and the couches are so comfy- great places to lounge around or get some studying done!

Chris

10/15/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

CPP is a great school for students who are pursuing a career in a technical field. The quarter system keeps students focused and on track 100% of the time and doesn't allow for procrastination. This is a perfect school for just about everyone.

Tips for prospective students

CPP is a perfect school for everyone. If you plan on attending then you are in for a great journey. Cal Poly is a lot of fun, but you have to be prepared to buckle down and do your work. As one of my professors stated, With the fast pace of the quarter system, if you even drop your pencil you will be too far behind to catch up.

Bang for the buck

CPP is a very prestigious school when it comes to technical fields and agriculture. CPP provides some of the best education for a very reasonable price. Can't get much better than this.

Am enjoying being here

I am currently attending CPP and so far I have loved every moment of being here. The campus is very nice, the students and staff are very friendly, and there are a lot of fun clubs and activities to get involved in.

Am learning a lot

CPP has taught me more in this first year than most of my high school career. The professors at CPP are some of the best in their field and give great career path advice and training.

Helena from Temecula, CA

10/27/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Am enjoying being here

A beautiful campus with a very friendly environment, Cal Poly Pomona was my first choice of schools to attend after I graduated high school and I was so excited when I learned that I had been accepted to attend. The professors are very nice and helpful and the school has many different programs designed to enhance the students college experience as well as allow the students to have the greatest possible chance to succeed after they have graduated. I highly recommend going to this school, the atmosphere and the costs are all ideal for any student seeking to further their education in agriculture, engineering, and so much more. Go Broncos! :D

Brittney from Pomona, CA

11/15/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

Whether you're into fashion, running a hotel or restaurant, helping animals, engineering, designing a building, and whatnot, there is a major here that will definitely interest you and can transition you into a career that you will love.

Tips for prospective students

Always be on the good side of your professors! They can do so much for you, like writing letters of recommendations or putting in a good word for you at a job you're applying for. People tend to overlook the fact that these professors have office hours and that they WANT students to visit them.

Bang for the buck

If you commute, it's roughly $2000 per quarter, and if you dorm, roughly $5000. That's really good, considering that there are so many other schools that are much more expensive, but have the same quality of education. Cal Poly churns out brilliant students and many of them do get hired in their industry because this school has so many great programs. So a top-notch quality education, with a high guarantee for being hired because of the great programs, at only $2000-5000? Why not?

Am enjoying being here

There are tons of clubs and activities for every interest out there. It's something to definitely check out. There are also many places for hanging out and good food on campus (and off campus) as well. Every Thursday, the Kogi BBQ food truck comes out near the school, so it's definitely something lots of Cal Poly students enjoy. Also, the scenery is beautiful! Sometimes, it feels like you're in a painting. It's actually one of the nicest campuses in California. Also, since it's an agriculture school, where they grow their own food and raise their own livestock, it's really cool when you just pick an orange off a tree or see the horses frolicking with each other.

Am learning a lot

The professors are awesome. Most of them are helpful and enjoy teaching about what they have studied for their whole life. There's a lot of passion, which translates into making it an interesting topic for students. Also, classes go by fast since it is a quarter system, but it's easy to handle as long as you're on top of it. Remember, how much you learn isn't just dependent on the class and professor, but on how much you apply yourself. The resources are all available to you, like free on-campus tutoring, it's just up to you to take advantage of it. Along with that, since the school's motto is Learn by doing, you don't just learn the theory behind something, but rather learn how to apply what you learned in the real world, making you better prepared for the future.

Crystal from Los Angeles, CA

11/16/2011

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

Cal Poly is great for students who love nature and earthy sights, because there are trees all throughout campus, a rose garden, and duck pond. There is a great deal of walking, but once you understand the shortcuts to classes and buildings, it makes like a whole lot easier.

Tips for prospective students

I am an African American, and being here made me realize that I am really one of less than 1000 Black students attending this school. It was a major culture shock to see no one in my class look like me, and it is still something I am not used to yet. My advice for other Black students would be to find other black students on campus. Everyone is in the same situation you are in so you don't have to feel alone. Don't only hang out with your specific race, but make sure you can count on them to understand how you're feeling.

Bang for the buck

Cal Poly is a beautiful campus, but housing can sometimes get on your bad side. Just this morning, the water heater broke and I had to take a cold shower at 6:30am. I was not a happy camper. But overall you learn to live with the rowdy hall noise and arguments with next door neighbors.

Am enjoying being here

I enjoy being here because I can learn how to work on my own, there are no restrictions put on by parents, and this is the first real taste of adult life. I call my dorm and others house, and it really does feel like home when you live on campus.

Daniel from Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Any student. The education is great at this university, while not wasting a lot of money on more expensive universities.

Tips for prospective students

Once starting college focus and work hard on getting your GPA up and passing all your courses. Talk to your advisor so you will not fall behind in the future. As your advisor for a guide and which classes you should take to graduate on time and not having to waste money on more years of school for a 4-year degree. Do not slack! You might feel like slacking to better enjoy college life but do not let this affect your grades. Start strong to end strong, believe me.

Bang for the buck

School is in fact expensive. This is one of the best schools for the money and I have seen that it is one of the cheapest. Even though it is one of the cheapest you realize that it adds up during the years. This university won't drown you in debt and will be a little easier on your pocket than other more expensive school.

Am enjoying being here

The school is not very confusing to navigate. If you are lost just ask the friendly students around where a particular building is and the majority of the time they will give you detailed instructions on how to get there.

Am learning a lot

Each class you take will provide new information that you might have not known before. The professors at this university know how to teach well and make it easy for you to learn the material. You will discover new things and learn new things. This is what the university is suppose to do.

Melanie from Richmond, CA

Students who are interested in Business (a new building was just put up and opens next quarter) and definitely Engineering of any kind. Also Animal Science and Animal Health Science students.

Tips for prospective students

I recommend that students come and visit and see how they like the school. What I like may not be as enjoyable for other students. Also, study up on what Residence Hall you would want to get into because it does make all the difference. For example, Encinitas is in the middle of all the dorms with everything happening, but Aliso is the party dorm that never sleeps. Also, don't choose the 19 Meal Plan because it honestly is too hard to try and eat three times a day, even if you are able to do it now. Trust me, it's harder here.

Bang for the buck

Coming to Pomona is definitely worth the money you pay. The school offers tutoring and has a variety of classes that anyone can take. I only give it four stars though, due to the fact that the budget cuts are making the tuition higher and higher each year, and some programs are being cut back. However, for being just a CSU, Cal Poly Pomona is above par and towers over the rest of the CSUs.

Am enjoying being here

I really do like Cal Poly Pomona, even though it wasn't my first choice school. The people here are really nice and the teachers seem to care about their work. There is also a beautiful view of Mount Baldy and we even have our horses right across the street that my friends and I sometimes pet at night. The only things that I would warn prospective students about are that, one, it is a commuter school meaning that on the weekends the campus is pretty much dead because almost everyone goes home. And two, the campus is kind of in the middle of nowhere and hard to leave if you don't have a car. When you go down the street though, which is a few miles away, there's a plaza with places to eat and a Target. It's not too hard finding someone who has a car anyway.

Am learning a lot

I would say that Cal Poly's philosophy Learn By Doing is actually helpful. Rather than just reading the text and sitting in the lectures, Pomona has labs and activity classes that can help you get a better feel of what it is you're learning and how you can apply it to the real world. For example, for my major, I am going to be taking a class called Animal Handling and Restraint, in which the class learns how to be in control of the animal that they are taking care of.

Getting classes will be tough, its very competitive to get into specific classes. my suggestion if you transfer get the earliest date possible to come in for orientation, also work on a grad plan early bu be ready to switch it around often. Also if you are a freshman get on the 4 year plan (priority registration) and dont ever let your GPA drop below a 2.5 and you will be golden and out in 4 years no problems

Bang for the buck

although tuition everywhere is rising, i feel that Cal Poly Pomona, is one of the few schools that still has the quarter system in this area. only downfall is that there arent as many classes offered each quarter as needed to meet the demands for all students.

Am enjoying being here

the atmosphere is great, everyone on campus is very friendly and extremely helpful with any problems that may arise. I have yet to run into a problem where someone has told me they CAN'T help me. They always try to help you all the way through or find someone that can.

Ontario, CA

i heard engineering has a good program but i dont know how? the math teachers are not really that good at explaining, it might be that these types of students are really great teach yourself students.

Tips for prospective students

my friends this school is not that great, all that i have learned i taught myself, ive had over 30 professors and i can only say 3 of them were actually good, its sad and very disappointing. in high school i was able to maintain a 3.5, and 3.0 was my lowest for a semester but here i can only get as high as a 2.6 and i dont even have a job come on now!! see what i mean.

Bang for the buck

to expensive and teachers are not great, im sorry, really sorry but they are not.

Am enjoying being here

i enjoy the campus its really nice,

Am learning a lot

you dont really learn much if you dont teach yourself, the professors act more like supervisors than teachers.

Naimah from Upland, CA

01/03/2012

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Great for these types of students

Students who are self motivated, team players, positive, hardworking and determined to win, will do well at Cal Poly. Since students come from all over California (and the country) prospective students will come and learn with people from all over the world and with diverse backgrounds. They will learn to work in a multicultural environment.

Tips for prospective students

Prospective Students should go to Orientation, Bronco Fusion, and sign up for the Four year Plan as well as the One year of advising. These are all tools that help new students become familiar with the Campus, and the most effective way to use their time there. By taking advantage of these opportunities, student with get the most out of their college experience, and thereby making it a positive and memorable one.

Bang for the buck

I am getting a great education at a reasonable price. Not only am I getting a quality education, but I am getting the experience of being part of a community of people who want to be there; who want to achieve some admirable purpose; and who have the hope and determination to accomplish their goals. People are generally happy at Cal Poly Pomona and are relieved that it doesn't cost as much as other Universities.

Will enjoy being here

I love the sense of Community at Cal Poly Pomona (since it was my Alma Mater). I love the small class sizes and the fact that we work in groups as well as do projects individually. The education and training I will be getting there will be of a high caliber. I will have a head start in the work world because of Cal Poly's great reputation, name, and network.

Will learn a lot

Cal Poly Pomona is a Learn by Doing school. I expect to learn a lot from the Professors (who are also practitioners) as well as from my peers and the experience we gain by working in the field.

Ricky from Baldwin Park, CA

01/08/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Bang for the buck

Definitely worth it.

What to do for fun

Whether you're one of those people that enjoys working out or enjoys playing video games this campus has just about everything to meet everyones needs. I personally enjoy just hanging around the Starbucks.

Food and Dining

Good variety of different types of foods.

Academic Rigor

Love how the professors tend to challenge their students and how students challenge each other, keeps you from being stuck in a constant state of knowledge. You learn new things everyday.

Tips for prospective students

Join clubs, don't be afraid to make friends, and most importantly ENJOY yourself! :)

In three sentences

I'm currently on my second year and not yet have I regretted choosing this as my place for getting an education. The campus is great, its filled with friendly people and a relaxing environment.

Diana from Mira Loma, CA

There are plenty of security cameras around campus in case an incident happens. There are also many emergency buttons that are of great use when it is dark and not many students are around.

Clubs and Activities

Many clubs like to engage with different people and welcome anybody with friendly smiles. They do many activities like club meetings, outside activities, get togethers, bond fires, etc.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Japanese garden is the perfect place on campus where one can go to just enjoy the beautiful scenery or to relax. It is favored by many since it not only helps relieve stress but it also contradicts the concrete buildings of the campus.

What to do for fun

Other than the fun activities that clubs have for the students, their are programs where students can sign up to go hiking, surfing, skateboarding, rock climbing, paintball shooting, and etc.

Food and Dining

For students who live on campus, there is the Commons where they can eat and use their meal credit. They have various types of food that change throughout the meal times. There is also a food court where fast food restaurants are also available. Other healthier restaurants are also found in different areas around the campus.

Dorm Life

Students who live in the dorms are able to fully enjoy their life as college students and become more independent. Although the dorms are not too big, this allows the students to get used to their roommates faster.

Academic Rigor

The intensity of the classes depend on the teacher one gets. Most of the teachers here want their students to actually learn and understand the principles.

Tips for prospective students

Cal Poly Pomona offers help and support to all its students, especially when it comes to tutoring. No matter if you are failing a class or are doing fine, I strongly suggest that you take advantage of these opportunities. It is also very beneficial that you get to know your teachers and make friends in your classes (make study groups).

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is a great 4 year Cal State University that emphasizes on hands-on experience. Many different clubs, programs, and opportunities are offered to its students, which help in improving our social and leadership skills. The students here are of diverse ethnicities, so it is interesting to meet and befriend students that come from different countries.

Jocelyn from Ontario, CA

02/03/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

well as a commuter all my fun is done in my home town. i have amazing fun with my friends at all times. the fun here at school is pretty much meeting new people and doing different activities like joining clubs or going greek i myself have join clubs and committees. i also enjoy playing sports so every new quarter i like to do intramurals sports which is pretty much a team that you create with friends and join a sport. as of this quarter i have joined basketball, ive played for 13 years so i'm very happy that i could still be able to play after high school.

Food and Dining

food! there are many places around campus to go eat. we have from subway to taco bell to even panda express. i myself work at the dinning place los olivos commons where the students that live on campus go eat. its a great place to dine for cheap and they have from sandwiches to mongolian food and a buffet that is freshly laid out for the students.

Dorm Life

i personally commute, this university is more of a commuter school. but they have recently made a program that if one lives more than 20miles out of the school they must dorm first year. i made many friends who did dorm so i was practically in the dorms everyday my first year. the dorms were either a double or triple rooms. the dorms were spaced enough so you always had your side of the room and your roommate had their own. the only thing dormers had to share was the bathrooms.

Academic Rigor

if you like to be challenged in any class this school is very up for the job. as a biology major i believe that this major is one of the toughest because of all the things we have to memorize, but in that the challenges that this school gives, for the most part it motivates you to do even better.

Tips for prospective students

most important tip that everyone would say to you is to probably keep focus on your studies more than just going out and party.

In three sentences

this school is great with there motto learn by doing you experience each class by doing more than just reading a book. the campus itself is very outdoorsy,very peaceful, and most importantly this campus is a very green environment. lastly, calpolypomona is a great way to meet people because the campus is a perfect size not too big nor' too small but everyone gets to meet one another at one point of their school years.

Anonymous

02/10/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

the bronco student center is a place for study. meet. play. eat. there is a game room complete with pool tables, air hockey, and video games for active entertainment. there are couches to sit and watch the next big game on multiple televisions (where much of the food and dining is). clubs, sororities, and fraternities are another popular outlet of recreation on campus. additionally, cal poly pomona's location is in the heart of southern california surrounded by los angeles, disneyland and other theme parks, beaches to the west and mountains for ski/snowboard to the east.

Food and Dining

there are a variety of options available, from the chain fast food places like carl's jr., panda express, subway, round table, etc. to the farm store's fresh options which offer foods grown on campus through the agriculture dept. if something a bit more fancy is what you are after, try the restaurant at collin's college of hospitality management - a place where one may watch the student chefs prepare your meal through the glass window, or enjoy a view overlooking the inland valley.

Dorm Life

this school is primarily a commuter campus, so ways to meet others if you do live in the dorms, suites, or village is to get involved with clubs, sports, and inter-murals.

Academic Rigor

cal poly's philosophy is to learn by doing which is great for people who are visual and kinetic learners. professors in the environmental design departments specifically thrive on this theory which promotes group learning and creative freedom.

In three sentences

cal poly pomona is well known for preparing its students to become successful alumni with it's hands on approach to learning in and out of the classroom. the unique history of the school is reflected throughout the campus, yet all of the academics are teaching the at forefront of the potential careers. with such a widely diverse campus, whether it be cultures or majors, this school educates how to conduct ourselves in a real-world setting.

smiley

02/14/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

campus safety is 5 stars. the campus has many blue emergency posts every few feet so that you can press for any emergencies. there is also the cal poly police department and an individual number you can keep in your cell phone in case of an emergency and they will be there. safety is not an issue at all.

Greek Life

i have not joined any sororities but from the pictures i see of my friends in their greek life, they seem to be enjoying themselves. it is sincere sisterhood and safe to join the greek life.

Clubs and Activities

there are so many diverse clubs and activities on campus from clubs for different majors, ethnicity, religion, etc. there are always fun activities to get involved in and it would be impossible not to find something that suits an individuals taste.

Great for these types of students

honestly, it's a great place for everyone because the campus is diverse. academic wise, it would be great for engineering and architecture majors because it is one of the top schools. everyone would easily fit in and feel a sense of belonging.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

you can climb to the cal poly sign on top of the hill or visit the beautiful, cool (temperature and visual wise) japanese garden.

Bang for the buck

if you dorm at cal poly, you get the gym membership for free and there is something always going on. importantly, the campus is very safe with the police department near by and the blue emergency stations every few feet just in case there is an emergency. you can't help but feel the positive vibe and it's just a great place for education and the college experience!

What to do for fun

you can also go climb the hills to the cal poly sign or go play in the game room. if you want to go out and have fun, there is diamond bar a couple of minutes from cal poly as well as raging waters on those heated days. if you want to relax, go to the japanese garden and see the turtles and coy fish. if you get lucky, you might get to see little ducks!

Food and Dining

again, i speak from the experience i had when i had freshmen orientation but the food was scrumptious. the plates and all utensils are very clean and the food is freshly made. there are a variety to choose from such as salad from the salad bar or american food, mexican food, italian, etc. ice cream for dessert is an a+ especially on those hot summer days.

Dorm Life

i commute so i don't know too much about the dorm life itself but from my experiences of dorming for 2 nights 3 days for freshmen orientation, the dorm was clean as well as the bathrooms and ac worked just fine. there are also pool tables as well as a tv downstairs in the lounge to relax with friends.

Academic Rigor

what do you expect? it's college. it might not be stanford or berkeley but cal poly has rigorous classes. don't let that bother you too much. the professors are happy to help you if you just go out of your way to ask for that extra help.

Tips for prospective students

make sure to come to school with an open mind and a great attitude. know that you are coming here not only to have fun and make great memories, although that is very important, getting an education and graduating is your goal. get involved on campus and meet great people which will help you get connected to the real world after graduating.

In three sentences

cal poly pomona is an outstanding school especially for engineering, architecture, business, hotel management majors and even more. the campus itself is very clean, serene, and safe. the students and teachers/ staff especially are very helpful and friendly.

Carlos from Palmdale, CA

there are over 200 clubs at cal poly pomona and counting! you can start your own club as well!

Great for these types of students

students searching for a challenging, yet fun environment in which to study.

What to do for fun

there is plenty to do at cal poly pomona. there are intramural sports that keep many bronco students active throughout the quarter. sport range from soccer, volleyball, football, basketball, lacrosse and more!

Food and Dining

the campus is full with restaurants, dining halls, and vending machines. you will have many options available regarding food.

Dorm Life

you become friends that will blow you mind away. you will love meeting new people, making friends, learning about different lifestyles and backgrounds. most importantly, you will be more dependent and responsible now that you will be given your own room with no parents.

Academic Rigor

professors want every student to pass. they have flexible office hours in which the student can have a one on one conversation with the professor. here you can ask any questions you might have about the material being covered etc.

Tips for prospective students

take a tour of the campus before you enroll. learn about the activities that go on throughout the year and get involved in extracurricular activities!

In three sentences

great environment, fantastic architecture, and awesome faculty. cal poly pomona is a 10 out of 10 overall rated university. professors and faculty try their absolute best to give students the best education possible.

A current student

The campus is very safe and secure. It would be impossible for it to be 100% safe, but we have our own police station on campus, as well as our own personal ambulance.

Greek Life

This school is rich in Greek life, and it is a tight knit community of long lasting relationships.

Clubs and Activities

This campus is rich in the amount of clubs and activities that take place. Every Tuesday and Wednesday we have whats called U-Hour which is essentially that. An hour where no one on campus has class, and hour that you can do whatever you want to do. This is when all various clubs and groups on campus host events.

Great for these types of students

This school is great for students that like the outdoors, and that very open to meeting new people and trying new things. I can't say that you'll enjoy your time here if you are an introvert. But if you are an introvert and want to come out of your shell then this is the place to be.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Something that is really fun to do and that is a great stress reliever is the annual undie run that takes place just before the last finals of the year. It is a great way to relax and prepare yourself for the end of the year.

Bang for the buck

Cal Poly Pomona is definitely not cheap, but at the same time, Its a lot cheaper that most schools, and is definitely the school that I want to graduate from.

What to do for fun

there is a lot to do for fun, with multiple soccer fields, two gyms, a baseball field, and inter-mural sports for anyone to join. there is also all of the events that our asi (associated students incorporated) puts on, not the lest of which was humans vs zombies, or hvz. it was a large scale games of tag complete with missions, zombies, and paranoia. it was the most fun i've had in a long time and i can't wait to play again next quarter. there is also a games room in our bronco student center complete with pool, bowling, and many arcade games.

Food and Dining

the food here is pretty good. the commons food is ok, but can get pretty boring, but we have multiple fast food places on campus, such as carl's jr and denny's, a small food court, as well as a small grocery store and a farm store on campus. there is also a fast food plaza 10 min off of campus for even more variety.

Dorm Life

i am currently living in the dorms here at cal poly pomona, and i will never regret the decision. i in a few short months, i have already made closer friends than any i had in three years in high school. just make sure you aren't shy, and you'll make friends easily.

Academic Rigor

since we're a polytechnic school there are a lot of tough math and science classes. but the professors are really good about helping you if you come to office hours and what not. not to mention there is free math and science tutoring, as well as an essay workshop where they proofread and give constructive criticism on your essays.

Tips for prospective students

there is a lot of different clubs,groups, and activities available on campus and it's very easy to make friends. the easiest thing to do is take a risk and get involved with whatever you like. and of course make sure you keep up with your studies, because most groups have a gpa maintainability requirement.

In three sentences

the california state polytechnic university of pomona is by far one of the bests schools i've seen and had the pleasure of attending. the campus is beautiful and large, and the staff is always willing to help. i haven't had a problem here yet, and i plan to continue to attend and graduate here.

Arlen from Placentia, CA

02/19/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

the campus police patrol every so often and i always feel comfortable walking around.

Clubs and Activities

there are several clubs on campus. you just have to look for the ones that are interesting to you. the major specific clubs are great too. they have connections to employer opportunities and are a great help for summer internship programs.

Great for these types of students

if you are really good at time management and studying, you'll do just fine here.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

zombies versus humans was an event that required people to wear bandanna's around their arm if they were human or on their head if they were a zombie. the last human on campus won a prize. if a human hit a zombie with a rolled up sock, the zombie could not attack the human to turn him into a zombie.

Bang for the buck

pomona is pretty cheap compared to other schools and offers a great education with a great reputation. learn by doing really helps all the engineers/science majors.

What to do for fun

asi usually has entertainment every tuesday and thursday at u-hour. there is also a games room inside the bronco student center that has a small arcade and billiards tables and pool tables.

Food and Dining

the food offered on campus is great. panda express, carls jr., subway, sushi, round table, and denny's. the only problem is that the prices for the food are a bit more expensive than actually going to one of the restaurants by campus.

Dorm Life

dorms are small. the suites are a lot better and more spacious. freshman cannot live in the suites.

Academic Rigor

classes are not too hard. once you are here, you need to get adjusted quick. quarter system flies by quick.

Tips for prospective students

either get in shape to take the hill or do your best to have a light backpack.

In three sentences

it is very lively during the day. the classes are great and so are the people you meet. the only con is walking uphill for almost every class.

Valerie from Coachella, CA

there is always things to do in the dorms and on campus. every week there is something different going on at u-hour and at the bsc.

Food and Dining

the food is great at first from los olivos but then you get a little tired of it. good thing that there's different places on campus where you can eat.

Dorm Life

i'm a first year and i've made a lot of friends living here on campus. i live in alamitos. i find it very convent to live here, it's a little far away from everything but there's a shuttle you can take to go about anywhere you want to and it is right in front of the parking structure, so no problem moving in!

Academic Rigor

this is a well known school for its academics and is in a great location.

Tips for prospective students

i recommend coming here because it has a variety of majors. if you know what you want to study, i suggest you put it as your major, if not it might get impacted later on.

In three sentences

cal poly is a great school. everyone is so friendly around, if you ever need help in any way just feel free to ask anyone. the campus isn't too big, but it's great, there is always something to do here on campus.

Sarah from Apple Valley, CA

the campus has its own police station on campus with safety buttons all over school.

Greek Life

i don't really know because i am personally not interested in that.

Clubs and Activities

they have a ton of clubs!! they also have a pool that is open about 14 hours a day.

Great for these types of students

this is great for people who want a quieter environment and commuters.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

they have a japanese garden which is just beautiful. the founder also was superstitious with the number seven so their are a lot of things around campus with seven. one is the seven rings around the rose garden. another is the founders mansion which has seven windows and is in the shape of a seven.

Bang for the buck

the tuition and costs here are very affordable. it is definetley worth the money.

What to do for fun

their is not much campus life at the school but they have a ton of clubs so you can make your own campus life. there is also a mall, the beach, and downtown la pretty close by.

Food and Dining

i didn't try the food but everyone was raving about it. they also have a section in the dinning hall that has foods from a different country everyday.

Dorm Life

i think there dorms were very nice. they also have rules in place that are very convenient for students during finals.

Academic Rigor

i think this school has excellent academic programs and they are very hands on.

Tips for prospective students

apply for housing early. they have nice housing but they also have new ones and if you want those you will need to be one of the first to apply.

In three sentences

this school is gorgeous! the campus was very welcoming and relaxing. the people were also extremely nice and helpful.

Jay from Pasadena, CA

sort of scary after dark if your alone but its not terrible. campus pd offers a escort service to take you from your class to your car at night.

Greek Life

frats and sororities aren't that big on campus, and none of their houses are on campus. still, plenty of people get involved with them

What to do for fun

there's not very much to do in pomona near campus, downtown pomona is sort of ok, the fox theater has shows and concerts pretty often. all in all, pomona is close to other fun city's like la so having a car is a hugeee benefit, and if you don't you'll start getting creative.

Dorm Life

on campus housing is strict on their no marijuana policy, just saying. living on is a great way to meet people and the school. dorms are pretty much all first years.

Tips for prospective students

stay on top of deadlines (especially for housing).

In three sentences

very pretty campus with lots of greenery and nature. culturally diverse population and plenty of friendly people. well known for its engineering and architecture programs.

A First Year Mechanical Engineering Student

03/16/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The fact of the matter is, Cal Poly Pomona faces its share of hooligans and idiotic activity from members of its student body. However, due to the quiet night life on campus, crime is few and far between. The campus security handles any incidents quietly and is able to keep the campus safe.

Greek Life

The greek life at Cal Poly Pomona host most of its parties off campus. They provide transportation to and from their events to ensure student safety.

Clubs and Activities

Within the engineering community, their are a number of student run and school sponsored clubs. While the social aspect of these clubs is relaxed due to the youthful membership, they are run like real engineering firms. Outside of engineering, more socially oriented clubs are less structured.

Great for these types of students

Cal Poly Pomona is one of the best schools for hands on interaction in whatever field you plan to work in. If you're looking for a place in which to get actual experience as opposed to theoretical knowledge, especially in the field of engineering, Cal Poly Pomona offers more options than any other school in California.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Every year we have a humans vs zombies freeze tag game. It is a week long event in which the humans try to complete assigned missions around campus while the zombies hunt them down. This event has about 500 participants.

Bang for the buck

The annual tuition of Cal Poly Pomona is half of that of a University of California (UC) school. It can easily be said that the equivalent education you receive is worth more than half of that of a UC. Comparing the engineering department of Cal Poly Pomona to that of other schools in California, you receive an equivalent education in the classroom, but receive a better practical, hands on education than that of any UC.

What to do for fun

Most of the students head off campus to the nearby towns of West Covina and Clairemont where your standardized fare of shopping malls and movie theaters are present.

Food and Dining

Cal Poly Pomona features its share of corporate dining establishments, ranging from Panda Express to Subway. It also has its own dining establishments in the Los Olivos Dinning Commons and the Kellogg Ranch. Los Olivos is an all you can eat buffet, but lacks the freshness that one would expect from a school with a prominent agriculture program. The Kellogg ranch, while not always accessible to students, does provide a form of fine dining.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is dependent on which dorm you live in. If you were to live in the standardized college dorms, you enjoy plenty of social interaction because you're around other students so often. This is most evident in dorms that have close knit communities, such as the Honor's College. If you live in the suites, people keep mostly to themselves as the suites are more spacious.

Academic Rigor

The academic rigor for Cal Poly Pomona, at least for the engineers, is stressful due to the fact that one needs to juggle multiple high level classes in order to graduate within four years. Furthermore, Cal Poly Pomona is run on the quarter system, resulting in one encountering many different teachers.

Tips for prospective students

Consider the opportunities that Cal Poly Pomona's clubs and activities can provide. If you think that they can give you more than a higher brand name education, this school may be for you.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is an engineering school with a surprisingly good liberal arts program. It is run be the students, as they set the tone of the school as opposed to the other way around. It is a school for doing as opposed to just thinking.

Tamika from Walnut, CA

03/25/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

We have our own ambulance station, campus police station, as well as parking safety officers. Also there are many services that are offered through the parking and transportation services that are really reassuring.

Greek Life

Greek life is pretty great! Lots of Frats and Soros to choose from

Clubs and Activities

Lots to choose from.

Great for these types of students

Very diverse campus. There is something for everyone.

What to do for fun

We have clubs, intramural sports, fraternities, sororities, and athletic games. We also have midnight madness during finals week, which is sooo much fun.

Food and Dining

On thing that I love about my campus specifically is the dining options. We have many food chains on campus that are open all hours of the day and some late at night. The food is really good in the commons/cafeteria as well.

Dorm Life

Dorm life, I must say is pretty awesome. There are various activities to be a part of. On campus living is fun.

Academic Rigor

The rigidity of the college experience at Cal Poly depends on your desired major. We all know that some majors are more demanding than others, which would require more dedication and personal discipline.

Tips for prospective students

Try your best not to miss any of the application deadlines. Stay on top of your application process, and make sure you take a tour before you make a final decision. Just so you can get a better feel for the campus environment. Try to get a tour possibly when school is in session, so you can get an ideal feel for what campus life would be like if you do choose this campus.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is a very diverse campus. It has a very close knit community, and friendly professors who are easy to talk to. Overall it is a great school to attend.

Kevin from Ontario, CA

saftey isn't too bad. since it is pomona... and pomona is known a lot for gang activity

Clubs and Activities

Soccer and basketball are well good sports here

Great for these types of students

Great for low income students because they have really good programs and schoolarships for these type of students

What to do for fun

Mostly all to do for fun is go home. every now and then a band or dj will come and play in the center but that is all

Food and Dining

Food is expensive. more than actually fast food restaurants

Dorm Life

I don't dorm but i heard the first two years isn't really all exciting

Academic Rigor

Advisors are really nice and help a lot when it comes to choosing a major or a course for the next quarter. I really recommend advisors here.

Tips for prospective students

Attend all classes and discussions! Professor will not wait up for you and can be mean alot.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is quite an interesting school. Most students are quite calm except when it comes to partying. Cal Poly isn't really a party school but when it comes to partying it gets down! School and teachers are around a b- overall

Ana from Pomona, CA

04/24/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus security is always ready to protect and serve. At night time, they are even willing to give students rides to their cars if they do not feel safe walking. They look over the campus and CPP land.

Greek Life

Even though CPP is not known for their Greek Life, it is a large part of CPP. There are many sororities, frats, and events that take place at CPP. It is a fun way to get involved and get to know others.

Clubs and Activities

CPP offers over 30+ clubs and activities. From sports to science, from science to adventurous clubs, etc. They help students meet others and make connections. Joining a club is a great way to spice up your resume for grad school and the job field.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

On Tuesdays and Thursdays of every week we have 'U' hour. It is from noon to one o'clock. During 'U' hour no one has class, so you get to hangout with friends, eat with them, or have time for group meetings. It is a fun hour to get to hangout, even study or do homework.

What to do for fun

At CPP there are many things to do for fun like, Intramurals, Clubs, Groups, etc. I play softball for intramurals and it is so much fun. Intramurals is only $20 and you cant play as many sports as you want; from football, to tennis, to soccer, and many other sports that are offered.

Food and Dining

The food at CPP is good; at the most, the fast food is. There is Round Table, Subway, Panda Express, Sushi, etc. I always tend to find myself at Round Table because they are fast and the food is delicious. The only time I have had a dining experience was during orientation. The food was good and there were many varieties. It is buffet style.

Dorm Life

I do not dorm because it is too expensive when not receiving financial aid. But during orientation, you get to spend two nights in the freshmen dorms. It was a good experience.

Academic Rigor

The academics are great. There are many amazing professors who have PhD's and help the students fully learn the material and others who don't have a doctorate but are really good at what they teach. So far I have had good experiences with my professors.

Tips for prospective students

One tip would be joining the Four year academic pledge program if you know you are sticking to your major.

In three sentences

CPP is a great academic hands on school. They give students the opportunity to be involved and find their own. This school is really welcoming and beautiful.

mercy from Los Angeles, CA

05/07/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

At the beginning of the Fall Quarter Cal Poly Pomona has their Annual Hot Dog Caper where teachers, faculty, and volunteers serve free hot dogs and drinks to the students of cal poly to welcome them to a new year of school!

What to do for fun

There is plenty of things to do on campus. You can join the greek communities, take a part of intramural sports. Become part of student government, or be a member of a club. During U-hour no one has classes going on and you can simply chill in the grass and take a nap or take a part of the campus wide events going on during that time. You choose!

Food and Dining

There are plenty of locations to eat on campus, after a while though you might get tired of it. Try bringing your own food once in a while.

Dorm Life

While dorming on campus you will definitively have your share of fun meeting and experiencing college life with new people. Cal Poly has the typical halls where you have community living , however there is also the suites which is a more private type of living which you share with three other students.

Academic Rigor

Cal Poly Pomona definitely has challenging courses, just like any other university will.

Tips for prospective students

Students my advice to you is to do your research on the resources a school has and use those resources wisely. Remember those resources have been implemented for your use, don't waste them.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is a wonderful environment where students can excel in and thrive socially and academically. It is a very beautiful campus surrounded by the beauty of nature. It is also one of the most diverse places I have ever been in, which makes me feel right at home.

Amberlee from Hesperia, CA

I campus safety is in high priority. The school is a large school, so the campus police offer a special phone number to call and they will locate you and solve the problem.

Greek Life

There are a ton of campus clubs. you name it i bet they have it.

What to do for fun

I love the outdoors so i spend most of my time sitting under a tree in the grass studying for my classes.

Food and Dining

A wide selection of food from fast food to dinning.

Dorm Life

Very good.

Academic Rigor

Five stars because its an Awesome school.

Tips for prospective students

I would recommend to get involved as much as possible.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is a great school because the learning experience is a hands on experience. I campus is located in a Beautiful location with a ton of trees and grass. As for the campus life it is a great school to get to know new individuals on a study level as well as a friendship level.

Dieu from San Diego, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Great for these types of students

Engineering and Design students should come to Cal Poly Pomona. Also Education and Business students too.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Cal Poly has many different organizations to join and meet new people. From Chicano club, Asian club, Indian club, African American Club and much much more for you to revere in. The library is big and full of resources. There is a disable center for disable students to learn about how to deal with school. A counciling office for students who need academic counceling.

Bang for the buck

Dorm doesn't cost as much as other universities. Can even live in a single dorm for 12000 bucks a year. Also there are buses and shuttles if you don't have a car. And there is many places to see and love.

What to do for fun

Go to the recreation center to work out and enjoy some clean air at the koi pond. Schedule a visit to the horse field and forest and rose garden.

Food and Dining

A place where you can enjoy a well balance meal and not have to break the bank. Great service in dining halls and plenty of varieties from asian foods to mexican foods.

Dorm Life

There is room to sleep and eat. Play and have fun and relax, study, clean, and give yourself the space you need.

Academic Rigor

A very rigorous and challenging environment. Full of fun and excitement. Really motivating and intelligent teachers.

Tips for prospective students

Apply early and on time. Keep all the letters and emails they send you. Contact them for further information and don't be shy.

In three sentences

A beautiful and spacious university. Plenty to see and do. Motto is learning by doing.

Serina from Monrovia, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

Watch out, such a large campus almost anything could happen!

Great for these types of students

Outgoing, self-moticated, and mature adults who want to better their future

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

TURTLE POND!!!!

Bang for the buck

Wish everything wasn't so expensiveee

What to do for fun

Hang out with friends

Food and Dining

I love the food here and there's many options. I like how they have fast food and a Starbucks but for other meals you can eat more nutritional foods in the cafeteria. Can't wait to dine at the Kellogg restaurant :D

Dorm Life

Very fun, nice people who just want to meet more people! I would love to wake up to this campus every morning after long nights with friends

Academic Rigor

My boyfriend has been attending Cal Poly and although he has many assigned projects for his GE classes, the work is not incredibly hard, unless you aren't the best essay writer. Sometimes it's better to get GE classes out of the way at a local community college.

Tips for prospective students

Apply early if you have the chance! Make sure you are ready to walk a lot ;)

In three sentences

A lively campus that has much to offer with its many colleges. So far everyone I have met is fun and has a smile, so that's a good sign! My favorite part so far is going on the weekends when there are not as many students and eating all the good food in the cafeteria.

Plan your class schedule early, classes book up faster and faster each year.

In three sentences

California Polytechnic Pomona is an excellent school that has provided me several opportunities to learn and achieve my degree goals. Teachers are very interested in our learning. My fellow students have been helpful and informative.

Alexandria from Upland, CA

There is a safety alert system via text/email/phone for emergencies. The campus is pretty well lit at night and it seems like there's always someone around.

Greek Life

I'm not in a sorority and I've only gone to a few frat parties, but from Greek week and various other gatherings it seems pretty active and fun.

Clubs and Activities

They have all kinds! Sports and clubs that are just for fun as well as fraternities, sororities, and other volunteer/outreach programs and clubs specifically for your major.

Great for these types of students

Great for all types of engineering students, especially civil engineers.

Bang for the buck

Great education for state school prices, if you can get classes.

What to do for fun

Definitely get involved in clubs and activities, after all, it's not what you know but who you know that takes you places.

Food and Dining

There are a good amount of options on campus, as well as various restaurants and fast food off campus that are only a few minutes away by car.

Dorm Life

I didn't live in the dorms, but from what I hear they're pretty decent. Also, from what I understand the Village is better than the regular dorms.

Academic Rigor

Cal Poly Pomona is a quarter based school, which means that you have 10 weeks of lecture/lab time and then finals. It is pretty fast-paced, and sometimes (depending on the amount of units you're taking and the difficulty of those classes) work can pile up and you can feel overwhelmed.

Tips for prospective students

Don't overload yourself with classes your first quarter or two. Let yourself get used to the faster pace as well as give yourself time to settle into your own groove. Group studying seems to be the best way to absorb material from classes; even if you think you know something, helping someone else learn what you already know definitely increases your level of understanding.

In three sentences

It is a wonderful school for commuters. Classes can be hard to get depending on your major and/or class standing. There are many clubs and activities available for specific majors as well as general interests.

Paul from San Diego, CA

Commuters and students who don't really desire a typical college atmosphere seen in the movies.

What to do for fun

Make friends on campus and ask them what they do on the weekends since mostly everything that is fun to do is off-campus. Again, it is a commuter school.

Food and Dining

There's the Los Olivos Commons, which is the main dining hall. The food's only good in the beginning two weeks of each quarter, and then they stop trying. There's the Denny's near the suites, which isn't half bad if you have a meal plan. Otherwise, it's very expensive. Then, there's the marketplace with Carl's Jr., Panda Express, Taco Bell Express, a convenience store, and a salad bar that's only open for lunch. There is nothing too special about the food and dining on campus.

Dorm Life

The facilities are out-of-date. Everything is old, and not much goes on since the campus is known to be a commuter school.

Academic Rigor

The quarter system is highly rigorous simply because it is only ten weeks long. On top of that, course material and expectations are incredibly strenuous. They would be so if the school were on a semester system, like the majority of colleges across America.

Tips for prospective students

Use the first two years to really find out if what you declared as your major is what you want to do for the rest of your life.

In three sentences

On a scale of 1-10, I would give Cal Poly Pomona a 6. The school's facilities are out-of-date and there seems to be no help given by alumni. It's engineering curriculum is highly accredited, however.

Anom

06/17/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

At orientation, they make sure that everyone has the campus police phone number on your cell phone. You can always call them and request a police escort if you don't want to walk alone. However, there have been robberies reported...

Greek Life

There's no Greek Row, unfortunately. Sororities do not have their own houses either. One good thing (or not) is a strict no hazing policy especially implemented sororities.

Clubs and Activities

Almost every major has its own clubs and those are good to join. A lot of different types of club exist in CPP, and so many events happen usually on Tuesday, Thursday, or Fridays.

Great for these types of students

Anyone in architecture, landscape architecture, urban and regional planning, or any type of engineering.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Cal Poly Pomona has a rose garden, and if any student is caught picking a rose, they can be fine $750! We also have an alligator on campus.

Food and Dining

The suites have its own 24-hour Denny's. The dorms have the Commons. The village have their own kitchens. And the rest of people can eat the Student Center or Marketplace. They have awesome smoothies. The library has a Starbucks but that usually has a very long line.

Dorm Life

I personally don't live at the dorms, but I have seen them. You can either live at the dorms, suites, or village. The village is a mini-apartment, but located right across from campus, and you can take the shuttle, reducing the amount of walking. The dorms are pretty small, but the suites and village are very nice.

Academic Rigor

Depending on your major, I imagine that it's different for everyone. The biggest reason why academics would be hard is because it is quarter system. I'm an urban and regional planning major so I have design and theory work, and that's considerable hard. However, I can't say for engineering or a social science major.

Tips for prospective students

Definitely go on a campus tour! You can learn a lot about the campus, and know the campus inside out, creating shortcuts. Bring comfortable shoes because there are a lot of hills and stairs. Be open minded and join lots of clubs - a lot of student oriented programs.

Adrian from Azusa, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

There have been no incidents that I have heard of, the security system is pretty secure.

Clubs and Activities

A lot of clubs in it, some that are mostly for persons who are majoring in something.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There is an Asian garden in the school

What to do for fun

For fun one can go to the gaming room, where you can play from a selection of arcade video games, from classics games to modern ones. There is also a place where you can go bowling, and every once in a while there are video game tournaments.

Food and Dining

The food is mostly those of big food companies like KFC and Subway. Once in a while there are students having fundraisers for clubs and other things, and they sell cheap food.

Dorm Life

I have no idea as I will be living at home

Academic Rigor

Classes can be very hard at time, the professors lecture and we must get most of our knowledge from a book

It looks like a good university, the pride of this school is its engineering and architecture programs, as they have one of the best engineering programs in the region. The university is located close to exciting places, some miles away south, Disneyland is located, to the north is a great mountain region and the San Gabriel River Basin. The School is in contact with nature, as there are many types of plants and many animals, like ducks and squirrels and fish live there.

Edgar from Cathedral City, CA

06/23/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is a very nice campus. Small class sizes and hands-on approach really make for some excellent learning. Some teachers are good, some are too demanding, others have high expectations, but thats how it is in every university.

Sean from Winnetka, CA

There is no frat row but there are a couple of frat houses in the same area. Greek Life is pretty big on the Cal Poly Pomona campus.

Clubs and Activities

There are lots of active organizations and clubs around campus. It is up to you to choose which ones you want to join because there are at least more than 60 clubs on campus.

Great for these types of students

This school is great for students who like to learn things hands-on.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

My Freshmen Year, during the end of the year, they hosted an Undie Run which I have never heard of at Cal Poly Pomona. Also, there is a mountain you can hike which leads to the Kellogg mansion. Yes, Kellogg as in the cereal brand, which is pretty cool.

Bang for the buck

This school isn't like all the other schools because while it is not that really big, its enough to go around the campus without a bike and not that vulnerable to get lost.

What to do for fun

Things to do for fun would be the activities that they have on campus and networking. Meeting a lot of new people and hanging out with them off-campus was most of my Freshmen Year. You can also go Greek and help out with school activities.

Food and Dining

I give the cafeteria food 6/10 but there are other food places on campus including but not limited to Denny's, Carl's. Jr, Taco Bell, Panda Express, and Markets that you can cash out on with your Meal Points that you get from the school.

Dorm Life

The dorms are made of brick walls but they have a lot of fun activities in the dorm community.

Academic Rigor

Some teachers are more rigorous then others but the classes here are pretty challenging.

Tips for prospective students

Manage your time wisely and have fun at the same time.

In three sentences

This school is filled with fun and hard work but also filled with bore on the weekends since this is a commuter school. Since it's so close to Los Angeles and to the beach, you can practically drive anywhere in a decent amount of time. Also, during U-hour, around 12:00P.M., the campus is most packed with students and has many activities and booths that sell food.

Margarita from Los Angeles, CA

06/27/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There is not to many things to do on campus on the weekends but luckly there plenty of things to do off campus. There is shopping center in West Covina which is about 15 miunutes away and has good dining options.

Tips for prospective students

The most important thing is to stay on top your work because the quarter system goes by super fast. If you dorm try to use your meal points, the commons is not to great. Also get involve in as many clubs as possible because it is a great way to meet people.

In three sentences

This is great school because of its learn by doing philosophy. I have done so much in one year, everything from volunteering, cooking, and networking with hospitality industry executives. The vast diversity that this campus offers only adds to the great experiences and friendships that one creates.

Jessica from La Mirada, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

The campus is very safe because not only does it have security patrolling around, the students here are not trouble-makers. Students at Cal Poly are very friendly and safety is a strong thing here.

Greek Life

Cal Poly does have some sororities and fraternities, but if this is an important aspect of your college life, then it is not the best school to attend for this.

Clubs and Activities

Cal Poly has a multitude of clubs and activities for students to participate in, ranging from the norm to some very unusual clubs. Every student can find something that he/she will thoroughly enjoy.

Great for these types of students

Cal Poly is great for students who don't want to just learn out of the textbook, they want to learn by doing. It provides a very friendly atmosphere, so even a quiet person, like myself, will feel comfortable here.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The school has a very strong architecture program, so some of the buildings on campus are rather unique.

Bang for the buck

The money spent at Cal Poly Pomona is very worth it because you get a great education that is comparable to a UC education, while paying much, much less. The hands on education is truly worth it because it sets Cal Poly kids apart from others because they actually have experience rather than just reading textbooks all day.

What to do for fun

It is impossible to get bored on this campus because there are so many clubs to join, as well as friendly people all-around. Most clubs are very active and give students plenty of opportunity to go out there and do something. Also, every dorm has activities posted that people from that dorm can participate in.

Food and Dining

There are many good restaurants on campus, as well as delicious food in the cafeteria that all come with meal plans. Students have the options to eat anything from fast food to healthy food, giving a wide variety.

Dorm Life

The dorms here are very small and sometimes these tiny rooms have to be shared by three people. The space does get a little cramped at times, but it is easy to get used to. The dorm advisers and people living with you are all friendly, making it a much better experience.

Academic Rigor

The professors at this school are both reasonable and driven to ensure every student receives the education that he/she deserves. I really love the hands on approach that they take because it gets students prepared for what's really out there in the real world.

Tips for prospective students

If I were to apply all over again, I would be sure to read all of my e-mails carefully because if you don't, it is easy to miss out on deadlines. Also, if possible, be sure to apply for the honors program because it looks great for both resumes and graduate schools.

In three sentences

Of all the colleges I applied to, Cal Poly Pomona was by far the best in keeping me up-to-date with deadlines and upcoming events. I got newsletters and notices emailed to me almost every day. This and the very beautiful campus was a main reason why I chose this school.

Leatha from Palmdale, CA

It's pretty safe, but like any school it has it's ups and downs. I suggest you keep you car locked up tight though, and if you like to walk/run at night keep your pepper spray handy just in case.

Greek Life

We don't have a Greek row, but most of the houses are located about 10 mins away from the school. We don't have Sorarity houses because of some strange prostitution law in Pomona that doesn't allow more than a certain amount of females to live in one house. But we have a pretty nice Greek life on campus and they are pretty involved. I suggest that you rush.

Clubs and Activities

So many clubs, it's kind of hard NOT to get involved, and I sugest that you do.

Great for these types of students

We are a big commuter school, but we try to harness a great community spirit for those that live on campus, and even off of it. If you're into a more laid back social scene them this is it. But Greek life does throw some nice parties.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

U-Hour on Tues and Thurs is pretty cool, no class are held then and there is usually something interesting to do or see at University square. We also host A LOT of event which I encourage everyone to go to.

Bang for the buck

No lie housing is super overpriced, tuition is okay, but it's hard to get classes especially GE ones.

What to do for fun

Hang out with your friends, go to the Games rooms, go to any events/programs that are free. Work out, take the bus to the mall, Downtown Pomona is pretty chill. Get involved with Greek Life because they usually have parties.

Food and Dining

The Denny's isn't a real one, LO gets old real fast, Vista Market is cool if you have the points or money to spend. There are quite a bit of fast food places like Panda and Carl's. We also have an Organic Farm Store across campus, and I for one think that it's worth the distance.

Dorm Life

Red Bricks all the way. Alamitos is a great more quite place to live, and Aliso is the party hall. I enjoyed my experience a lot, and that mainly had to do with the fact that I was an IHC Senator for my hall. Get involved, meet people, and go to programs!

Academic Rigor

Quite honestly it depends on your major, most of the required courses are fairly normal to pass, the biggest challenge is that we go by the quarter system which only give you 10 weeks to get your subject down. Stats 120 is one of the most difficult Gen Ed classes for most people.

Tips for prospective students

Be sure that you talk to your advisers and build a personal relationship with them. Go to your professors office hours. Try to have a nice social life, but always remember why you're at school in the first place. Time management is a top priority, and procrastination can become your downfall.

In three sentences

Overall I give the school a B rating. I love the location, great weather, beautiful campus, and wonderful people. However it is pretty difficult to get classes most of the time, the housing is expensive, and there isn't enough grants available.

Caitlynn from Sacramento, CA

Serious about academics, love of being in a beautiful outdoors area removed from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

What to do for fun

Being on the outskirts of Los Angeles, there is plenty of fun to have. On campus there are also a lot of activities going on. Get involved in events, groups, clubs and you'll have plenty to do.

Food and Dining

The food was good. I was on the premium meal plan and didn't cook much for myself. There were good healthy selections and some fun, not so healthy selections. Even though the store on campus was a little high priced on some things, it was really convenient to be able to shop there with my points.

Dorm Life

Dorm life was good. The RA's are active and present to help with all of the details of move in and move out. If you get a good one, there will be a lot happening in your dorm to keep you busy, having fun and motivated. Dorm life was great for me my Freshman year at Cal Poly.

Academic Rigor

Originally I was an Architect Major. The rigors of that program are tremendous. My academic adviser helped me to realize that I am a problem solver and Engineering is probably a more compatible field for me. The GE classes that I am taking are demanding and I am learning a lot from them too.

Tips for prospective students

Cal Poly Pomona is a great place for students leaving home for the first time as the RA's in housing are very active and help guide new Freshman through living on their own the first year. New students should bring shorts for the hot daytime weather and jackets/sweatshirts for the cold night time weather.

In three sentences

Cal Poly is a great environment for learning, offers great educational opportunities for relevant careers in today's economy and is set on the outskirts of one of the most diverse and forward moving cities in America.

Christian from CULVER CITY, CA

gym, inter-mural sports, lots of clubs on campus, running around campus, pool on campus, seeing the farm animals on campus

Food and Dining

lots of food choice on campus!

Dorm Life

Excellent staff and great place to make new friends/family

Tips for prospective students

Use ASI tutoring and writing center. If a math, science or engineer major use SEES workshop program

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is a new home that you will enjoy. The Students and Staff are always friendly and living on campus will open more opportunities to your life's goals. There's always help when needed on campus to study.

Sara from Arcadia, CA

07/17/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

We offer an escort service at night where a security officer will personally drive you to your car if you do not feel safe walking alone at night. There are also many emergency call phone poles throughout campus, one push will call the cops to your location to help you. Overall not much crime goes on on campus.

Greek Life

All my experiences with sororities is that those girls love to go after my butt. Literally every quarter some sorority girl grabs or strokes my butt. Not cool. The frats seem ok, no bad experiences with them, but nothing good either.

Clubs and Activities

There is a club for just about everything from religion to sports to academics to cultural to just having fun. Whatever it is you like to do there is a club for it.

Great for these types of students

This school is great for architecture, engineering, and biology majors. Our business program is also really good. Other majors here are also good. This school is better for those with a car though as it is more of a commuter school.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Towards the beginning of school we have a hot dog caper event, basically it's free hotdogs for lunch until they run out...and there are a lot of hotdogs. While not a tradition we have a rose garden, which is under heavy surveillance; the price for picking a flower is at least $500.

Bang for the buck

Being a Cal State school, it is cheaper than going to a UC and you get the same education. Every Thursday we have events going on in front of the bookstore that are free to attend, including concerts.

What to do for fun

On campus we have some clubs for sports and stuff. If you're not athletic there are clubs like Gamer's Union where they play board and card games like Dominion, Settlers of Catan and Magic the Gathering and Neo Anime where we watch anime and host trivia games and cosplay contests. Other than that, there's a mall a few miles down the freeway with a movie theater and an arcade called Round 1, it has bowling, karaoke, and arcade games.

Food and Dining

You pretty much know what to expect. The resturants on campus get kind of tiring after a while. Usually comes down to if you feel like Panda Express, Taco Bell, Carl's Jr, Subway or Round Table. There's a few other places too. Los Olivos, the dining hall by the dorms is buffet style so they switch some stuff out, but not much.

Dorm Life

If you live outside the local area you will be forced into mandatory first year dorming unless you are married or in the army. My dorming experience wasn't as great as most peoples. The kitchen was always gross, no one really cleans it except the janitor once every 2ish weeks. And the bathroom/shower was decent unless you decide to shower at night, then it's just a mess by then. Food routine gets boring after a few weeks.

Academic Rigor

G.E. classes tended to be really easy, most of the professors know that you don't really want to take those classes so they tend to be more lenient. Caution don't slack off too much in G.E.'s you can fail. Other classes are alot harder. Teachers care more about core classes and upper division classes. If you don't study and do the work, you really have no chance at passing.

Tips for prospective students

Look up your professors on koofers to get an idea of what you are going to experience. Also, if you have any friends that are upperclassmen, ask them, and if not, make some upperclassmen friends. Make sure you don't swamp yourself in work and studying, have some fun every once and awhile, it helps.

In three sentences

The campus itself is beautiful, especially the Japanese garden. Parking can be a pain during certain hours, especially U-hour, and some of the teachers aren't very understandable, but overall classes are good and the people are awesome.

It's costly, but what isn't these days? It's less expensive than a private or a UC and it's better than a community college. I think its the perfect in-between for anyone looking to save $$.

What to do for fun

Get involved! There is a room just for that purpose! You go and they can tell you about all the activities that are going on during the year. Do sports, join one of the many clubs, join a study group at the library...etc.

Food and Dining

I haven't eaten on campus yet but the food court has awesome restaurants like Panda Express!

Dorm Life

All I know is that they built some beautiful dorms recently!

Academic Rigor

I'll find out soon!

Tips for prospective students

MEET ALL THE DEADLINES! If you want all your paperwork done on time and to get your financial aid package before classes start so that you don't have to stress about how to pay for classes, get EVERYTHING in early! Checking Broncodirect daily will help you do this! Also, if you have any questions, ask them before school starts! The campus is open over summer, the staff has to be there, so take advantage of the opportunity and go ask questions during the SUMMER! There are no lines and you will be able to get all the information you need!

In three sentences

It is all together an awesome school! The staff is very helpful, the campus is always clean and beautiful and the students are friendly and glad to assist with directions. I am very happy that this is my school for 4 years!

Josh from Phelan, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

Laser tag! And rock climbing. Although, I'm not sure if this was solely for orientation.

Food and Dining

This I do know, and some food was alright, but other food was awful. Lunch and dinner were better, and somehow, they managed to let the apples go bad.

Dorm Life

I wouldn't know!

Academic Rigor

I wouldn't know!

Tips for prospective students

I'm not sure yet. I wish I could be more helpful.

In three sentences

It's a great school as of yet, but since I haven't taken any classes or experienced the lifestyle, I do not feel qualified to rate the campus as a whole. What I can say is that it is a nice campus, and it's rated one of the highest engineering colleges in the country.

Hayden from Placerville, CA

07/27/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Campus safety is phenomenal, there are alert monitors every couple hundred feet, where you can sound an alarm, and police will come. If you are alone at Night and need to get to your car, or back to the dorms, you can call the campus police and an officer will come to escort you to where you need to go.

Greek Life

There are a few Fraternities and Sororities that are active on campus, full of a lot of fun people.

Clubs and Activities

There is a club for EVERYTHING; Sports Clubs, Ethnic Clubs, Academic Clubs.

Great for these types of students

As cool as being a lone wolf is, it will be hard to have fun that way. There is a lot of fun to be had as long as you are social.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The Rose Garden is large garden complete with almost every different type of rose. It is very pretty and with a Gazebo in the middle, not a bad place to go on a date.

Bang for the buck

It is a great school, where you can meet a lot of great people, do a to of fun things, and get a really great education which will help in the future.

What to do for fun

There are lots of places to explore! There are random trails all around the campus that take you through gardens and forest areas. There is always somethinng fun going on in the dorms. ASI also almost always has something planned each week. If you ever get bored, head over to the Bronco Student Center where you can eat, study, exercise, or play. The BSC has a full gym, with weights and cardio areas. There is a Games Room, which has an arcade area, many billiards tables, ping pong tables, and a dance floor. When it is Basketball season, get ready for fun. The games are intense! Two buzzer beater games this last year, the playoffs, and a chance at winning the NCAA D2 Title.

Food and Dining

The Campus has a few restaurants, but Los Olivos Commons is the place to go. All you can eat, enough said.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is great, as long as you are not a recluse. Get out of your room and meet your neighbors. Everyone is trying to make friends!

Academic Rigor

The academic rigor depends on the major. As an architect, I find the academics very challenging in a good way.

Tips for prospective students

Do not procrastinate, and you will do great. Get scholarships so that you wont have to worry about finances. Talk to your teachers, make them know who you are, that way instead of grading your ID number, they will be grading a face that they know.

In three sentences

Cal Poly is an excellent place to learn by doing. Pomona has a beautiful campus. The Student/teacher ratio is really low, which is really good.

Some classes are like whatever, General Ed classes or whatever, but your core classes work you. Physics for me has been the killer and that's just a GE.

Tips for prospective students

Get out of freshman housing if you can. Get your classes early. etc.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is the school for me because it is local enough to commute back and forth to while also being far away enough to be like a new place to you. It's small and while you are there, the outside world goes away because you are like in your own community there. Nice people, faculty and no complaints.

Activities nearly everyday. There will be posters around you can't miss them.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

CPP dance Mosaic stairs

Bang for the buck

Dorms may cost the most but have the worst sanitation and space.

What to do for fun

Explore the campus. Participate in school clubs and events. Parties. Game room. And tons more.

Food and Dining

Everything but Los Olivos serves good food. LO tends to be repetitive and not sanitary. A few people did suffer from food poisoning.

Dorm Life

Other than meeting people dorm life was not fun. Nearly all freshmen go home on the weekend. So expect a desolate campus. Some dorms are have poor power options. So do not expect an AC. Broken buildings.

Academic Rigor

Some teachers should not be teaching.

Tips for prospective students

Stick to sites like koofers before signing up for classes. Read everything. Reviews and class work given.

In three sentences

Very small campus but a lot to see. Beautiful and very garden oriented. Buildings are creative and worth a look.

Colin from Saugus, CA

Strong teamwork, friendship, and leadership building experience with no hazing.

Clubs and Activities

Over 300 on-campus clubs and organizations ranging from all sorts of interests and activities.

Great for these types of students

Those who really know what they want to do in life and want some real-life learning applications in college.

Bang for the buck

Only about $18,000 a year including housing and food for California residents.

What to do for fun

Try to join a club or participate in intramural sports. You also are very close to Los Angeles so you could take to Metro or a bus if you don't have a car. There are also a few nice restaurants and a movie theater in Pomona so you wouldn't have to leave town to have a nice weekend.

Tips for prospective students

Try to pick your major before you apply so that way you will be on track with the classes you need and you could graduate in four years.

In three sentences

This is a great hands-on learning school. There are many opportunities to find internships and jobs in the local Los Angeles area. You will recieve a great education here if you work hard enough.

Jenevieve from Thousand Oaks, CA

08/08/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

Make sure you befriend the kids with cars. You'll want to get off campus at least once a week. Dorm life can get repatative quickly, so if you have the option of taking a car to school, paying the amount for a parking pass with well worth the bang for your buck.

Food and Dining

You'll get tired of the cafeteria real quick. But the kitchen in the lobby will quickly become your best friend, as will your friends who are majoring in hospitality and love to cook ;)

Dorm Life

It's the dorm life to be sure. Five stars on the people, two stars on the upkeep. They are replacing all of the freshman housing in the upcoming years.

Academic Rigor

It all depends on the classes you take and the teacher you take it with, as with any school. Not to mention the quarter system. It takes getting used to, but eventually you'll get into the swing of things. That's really the only thing that makes this school any more academically rigorous than other comparable schools.

Tips for prospective students

Living on campus may not seem appealing when you see the residence halls, they are the worn down and cramped-for-space dorms you see in the movies. But the environment fosters some of the greatest friendships you could imagine.

In three sentences

It's really difficult to get classes and the classes you take all depend on the teachers. There are some really great teachers though, if you know who to take. There isn't much to do within the city of Pomona, but the on campus programs and cities nearby more than make up for it.

Jared Ian from SOUTH SAN FRANCISCO, CA

Although it is primarily a commuter school, a great and diverse campus for dorm life. Don't be afraid to get involved and network as it will come in handy for the future.

In three sentences

Great Engineering, Business and Hospitality Programs. Innovative Computer Information Systems (Business Administration) being the first to offer program working with objects (self sustaining devices). Beautiful Campus located near Los Angeles, California.

Edgar from Los Angeles, CA

There is an actual police station within the school that ensure safety and immediate reporting.

Clubs and Activities

There are definately all types of clubs you can think of and you can even create ones of your own.

Great for these types of students

All types of students are welcome.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There are rumors of ghosts around the mansion of the famous founder of Kellog's cereal who donated the land to the state and turned it into Cal Poly Pomona.

Bang for the buck

There is definately a lot to do at Cal Poly and all depends on your interests.

What to do for fun

The student center has a game room and sometimes dances are held. There will be midnight concerts and fun activities. Socialize and go to the gym for athletics or for nerdy people like me there are computer rooms for playing online games.

Food and Dining

The food is great and there are all sorts of restaurants near by.

Dorm Life

The dorms are a decent size for 2 - 3 people and have enough space for each.

Academic Rigor

This all depends on what classes you take.

Tips for prospective students

If you plan to go here, I would suggest to go see the campus for yourself and go on a tour. That will help you see the bigger side of cal poly.

In three sentences

Cal Poly is a great school for engineering and the sciences. The environment is very attractive and the school is a decent size. The students and staff are kind and sociable.

JT

Security is pretty tight and the location is great so not much to worry about.

Clubs and Activities

Lots of clubs just take your pick.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

U-Hour!!! A time where no classes are happening and the center of campus is filled with food vendors and music.

What to do for fun

The location of Cal Poly makes you within 30 minutes of snow, mountains, ocean, or desert so take your pick.

Food and Dining

Just about everything available and scattered across campus.

Academic Rigor

As always some departments are harder then others but study groups make all the difference.

Tips for prospective students

Make friends and speak with your counselor regularly.

In three sentences

I find myself wondering what makes a good college student every Every semester and I always come down to the same conclusion every time I think about that answer. It is not simply the GPA or the constant reading and homework done on time, but rather the dedication to ones path and goals. Anyone can get top marks in any class but the true good college student, will have formed a new found skill that he/she will carry with them for life which Cal Poly will give you.

Michelle from Walnut, CA

09/13/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The campus is very safe. There are security cameras and emergency buttons in many areas. The police are always near by to assist in any emergency. Cal Poly also has a very low crime rate and is filled with friendly people, so there's not much to worry about.

Clubs and Activities

The clubs here are very involved and enthusiastic. They always sell delicious, cheap foods and have fun and interesting activities for their members. The thing I like most about the clubs in Cal Poly Pomona is the way they bring so many different people together. By the end of the quarter after joining clubs, you'd have made a number of great friends.

Great for these types of students

Cal Poly Pomona is great for any student since it's so diverse. But, I think the people who are more on the quiet side would really like it here. The campus and staff here are very peaceful and there are a lot of quiet places to sit around and hang out.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Probably the most unusual tradition of Cal Poly Pomona is the Rose Float. Every year, students cooperate with one another to create a beautiful float that will be seen on New Year's Day. As for an unusual location on campus, the Japanese Garden would be the one. This tranquil area will make anyone feel calm and relaxed.

Bang for the buck

Though going to Cal Poly Pomona is obviously not as cheap as a going to a community college, it's fortunately a lot less costly than a UC. Going to this college is well worth your money. You learn a lot from not only your professors and advisers, but also from the friends you make.

What to do for fun

The campus is beaming with different activities and a variety of clubs so there's always something to do on campus. The libraries also have interesting workshops that students can go to. If students want to do something off-campus, there are tons of delicious food places around the area and the campus is not too far away from the mall.

Food and Dining

The food places in Cal Poly are fairly decent. The prices aren't too bad. They're nothing special or unique but they're enough to fill a hungry student.

Dorm Life

I actually commute but I have lived in the Cal Poly Pomona dorm for one night during orientation. The buildings are sturdy but aren't so pleasing to the eye. The dorm room itself is also not very attractive since it's so dark and drab.

Academic Rigor

The professors at Cal Poly Pomona are extremely passionate about the subjects they teach, so of course they always want to challenge their students. Many of the instructors here like to make you think and use what you've learned in lecture or lab to apply it to real-life situations. As long as you study hard enough and pay attention in class, things will not be that difficult.

Tips for prospective students

Always try to branch out but make sure you know how to balance between your social life and your academics. Never slack off because it will be more difficult for you to enroll in the classes you want. The library will be your best friend.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is an amazing school with enthusiastic professors that are always willing to help students. In addition, its campus is beautiful and quite relaxing. I rate this school a 4 out of 5.

Zenon from Rialto, CA

We have a police station on campus and everything is safe, though I've heard of an assault a few years back on the edge of the property.

Greek Life

Dunno

Clubs and Activities

There are no shortages of clubs. We even have a dedicated U-hour every Tuesday and Thursday where there are no classes and clubs are free to meet!

Great for these types of students

There really is something for everyone. It is a really broad spectrum school and the possibilities are endless, unless you have some bizzaro major.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

We have a pointy building There is a horse buried in the rose garden We ripped off the undie run There is a cayman in the greenhouse People climb the CPP letter all the time, 2 PM or 2 AM We have Humans vs. Zombies!

Bang for the buck

In comparison to UC schools (at least in stem fields) this school is is much more cost effective in terms of job opportunities, but costs keep rising every year and they keep constraining the schedules by cutting classes. I hear that the president of the university got a raise, pensions went up, they built a new building, all the while raising tuition People 2 years my seniors said that they never had these kinds of scheduling problems before

It's getting better, the school is now a hybrid commuter/dorm school,before there was mostly commuters. Good luck with parking though

Academic Rigor

It can get pretty crazy with upper division engineering courses. All major have their weeding out courses. If you like the subject and have an aptitude for it, form GOOD study groups and work together. I can't stress that enough!

Tips for prospective students

Study for your SAT's and apply early! Try to join an organization at CPP during the application process. If you are a stem major, take advanced math and science courses.

In three sentences

It is a great school for anything S.T.E.M. related. We are also known for our hospitality management and agriculture departments. I've talked with industry recruiters from big companies like Lockheed and Boeing and they say they like hiring us because we hit the ground running when we start due to CPP's hands on approach

Steven from Corona, CA

Very safe campus, campus police is a fully staffed police department as a city would have and often email reports to keep students informed about campus safety and the city's safety.

Greek Life

Greek life is okay, there are parties quite often especially near holidays and the beginning of the school year.

Clubs and Activities

Lots of clubs, especially for engineering majors! There's a club that builds a formula 1 car and races it, a baja team that builds a off road buggie, a concrete boat team, a solar power boat club, among cultural and religious clubs.

Great for these types of students

Great campus for student's who want to peruse a scientific degree and want a hands on approach.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

We have a unique history, being that CPP was a farm. There is a horse buried under the gazebo in the rose garden, the forest is supposedly haunted, and there are still horses on campus bread from generations and generations of the founder's original Arabian horses.

Bang for the buck

CPP has a philosophy of Learn by Doing, if you want to be hands on and have engaging classes, a polytechnic is definitely for you! Tuition is at a set price after 6 units, so you can take as many as you can handle for the price of 6 units!

What to do for fun

There isn't much to do around the area, but student government and student activities make it so there is almost no need to leave campus. There's even movie night!

Food and Dining

CPP offers many food and dining options on campus, from fast food, to Round Table, and Denny's. We also have the commons where you can get food from your meal plan.

Dorm Life

Dorms are active and lively on the weekdays, but is quiet on the weekends since many go home.

Academic Rigor

Very challenging courses are offered, and the quarter system makes them even harder.

AJ from West Covina, CA

10/21/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The campus police are available 24/7 and always patrolling. There's minimal issues on campus. The main thing that can happen is theft. If you're conscience about your belonging you'll be alright, but if not someone will easily walk away with your items.

Greek Life

Since it's a dry campus, greek life is in full effect. Greek life is very involved and something is always going down-either party/event wise or community service wise. The Greeks party hard and work hard.

Clubs and Activities

There's a bunch of clubs and there's something for everyone. If you're into it, there's probably already a club on campus. If not it's simple and easy to make your own

Great for these types of students

It's polytechnic. So it's great for students who want to be hands on with their education, life, and adventures

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

It's a dry campus-meaning no alcohol on campus.

What to do for fun

The school goes out of their way to create fun events and activities for it's students. There's nearly always something going on. There's also a cheap on campus gym and intramural sports. In your down time, The Gamesroom is always the place the go. Between the video games, pool, bowling, etc there's a bunch to do in there.

Food and Dining

CPP has many different options for food, all of which are delicious. Whether you're a health nut and want the fresh grown food from The Farm Store or long for fast food life of Panda Express, they have something for everyone. They just added more on campus options like a Mexican grill and an open-late Dennys.

Dorm Life

Great sense of community in the dorms. Your fellow dormers become like your family. The school has many different living options on campus so it's easy to find a place that fits you, your personality, and what you're comfortable with.

Academic Rigor

It depends on what classes you take and what teachers you pick. The classes go by fast and assignments pile up if you don't pay attention. The campus offers endless amounts of help but don't slack off.

Tips for prospective students

*Always wear comfortable shoes, you'll be doing a whole lot of walking if you don't have a bike or skateboard. *Be prepared for the speed of a quarter system if you come from a semester system-classes move fast. *PARTICIPATE! Most of the fun comes from going out and being hands on. Find a sport, club, or activity that you like and jump right in. It's a polytechnic school-which means they want you to be well rounded and hands on

In three sentences

CPP is a calm and peaceful campus. There's a great sense of campus pride and community. Students are motivated and focused.

Kimberly from Los Angeles, CA

They literally have hundreds of clubs here. If you can think of any type of club that you would like to join we probably have it and if we don't you can make one which is defiantly very cool.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

We have an annual Human Vs. Zombies event where the humans try to keep away from zombies and zombies try to infect the humans by tagging them. It is absolutely fun.

What to do for fun

There are ton's of things here that you can do for fun. I usually like relaxing in the rose garden, japanese garden, or even the duck and turtle pond. I also love hanging out in the arcade room we have on campus and the lobby in our hall.

Food and Dining

I honestly love the Dinning here! We get good food at the Los Olivos dinning commons and We can even cash out at designated convince stores on campus. Restaurants here even take meal points which vary depending on which meal plan you have.

Dorm Life

I honestly love dorming here. It's been great. The residential halls are a great place to make new friends and memories. I honestly was terrified of dorming, but it turned out great.If you are good with arranging furniture to have more room (the rooms are small) and are okay with sharing a bathroom (it's actually easy to get accustomed to) then you will be fine. If not you can always live in the suites which are very roomy.

Academic Rigor

They take academics very seriously here. The classes are intense sometimes especially because it is a quarter system so things go by fast. In the end if you study hard enough you will get the grades and eventually the degree you deserve.

Tips for prospective students

You want to make sure that you have great grades. It is very important to be active in clubs during high school because they look at what you have given them. You have no essays for you to be judged by It is just your grades, activities, and standardized test scores.

In three sentences

It is a real great school to be in, it feels like you are in the middle of nowhere, but in reality you are not. The academics are amazing here with mostly great professors and great student organizations. You will have good fun here.

Mai from Glendora, CA

10/25/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

Hangout at Starbucks or the games room. Recreational center coming in a few years.

In three sentences

Nice looking campus. Nice modern library. Starbucks inside the library. Hard to get classes in impacted programs. Commuter school, so not much student life. Good civil engineering teachers. Very bad mechanical engineering teachers. Not many food options on campus. No food options on campus on Fridays and weekend.

Dean from South Gate, CA

Food is really good, but is also more expensive than I would like it to be.

Dorm Life

Dorms themselves aren't very nice, unless you pay extra for a suite.

Academic Rigor

Compared to high school, it is very tough and fast-paced.

Tips for prospective students

Register early and buy used books!

In three sentences

Although i have only been here for a short time, I have found most of the teachers to be very competent. The campus itself is quite nice, except for those pesky hills you have to walk up every day. Overall it seems to be a great school!

Teesta from Palm Desert, CA

11/18/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

the campus police are on top of their job all the time!

Clubs and Activities

There are so many from ASI (Associated Student Incorporated) to ISA (Indian Student Associated). there is archery, track and field, soccer and they have intramural sports! basically there is huge amount of club activity on campus.

Great for these types of students

Engineering and Hospitality interested people.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

there is always humans vs. zombies and school game that people partake and there is always midnight madness, a fun night before finals to let off steam. there are so many that I cant count them all!

Bang for the buck

the tuition is not that bad, but like all colleges, the tuition is pretty steep, but the amount is going down thanks to Prop 30.

What to do for fun

On campus we have U-hour from 12 to 1, every thursday and tuesday, where ther are no classes. The university quad is full of shops and tasty treats. On the weekends there is always a party or hangout to go to.

Food and Dining

Los Olivos (the dining commons) is pretty good, and the food is fine. it is buffet lined so you can have mongolian to good old fashioned american food. They always ask you opinions on the bulletins boards, so they can please their student taste buds. And there is always delicious coffee!

Dorm Life

Dorm life is a lot of un, even though mod people commute to campus. You meet different types of people and get to understand them a little bit more each day. There is always something happening on the floors, and in the end of the day you have at least laughed once. You make a lot of good memories when you dorm in Cal Poly Pomona,

Academic Rigor

We are on a Quarter system so it is kind of hard to transition into it, since most high schools have semester systems. The workload is quite a load but it is worth it when you finish it. Finals week is tough because it seems that it has come so fast, but overall the academic rigor is not that bad once you get used to it.

Tips for prospective students

If you are thinking of going into engieneering or hospatality then Cal Poly Pomona is an ideal place to go. The teachers really know their stuff and the labs are really interesting.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is great school for the people who want to live in a city but don't want to go through the rigor of city life. The campus is very nice and safe as well as fun. there is always something to do on the weekdays and the people are very nice.

Saehyun from Chino, CA

11/20/2012

Reviewer is Researching this school.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

Cal Poly is very strict when it comes to security within the campus. The campus has alarm posts everywhere. These posts are used when you are in an emergency. These posts have a button you can press, that makes alarm go off and alerts the security in the campus. The school is also located near the Pomona Police Department, making it a very secure place.

Greek Life

There are many sororities to choose from. The groups called Greek Life do anything within the campus, whether it is managing parties to having individual group activities. Many people who like to hang around those that are similar to themselves would enjoy being part of Greek Life.

Clubs and Activities

Cal Poly has so many clubs you can choose from. You can always find a group that you are interested in. The groups do activities in the school or community. One of them for example is the Rose Float club, it is a club where you can build a rose float for the parade in New Year's.

Great for these types of students

Cal Poly is a great place for students who are very serious about their career in the major they are in. The school is known for getting students jobs right after graduation. The campus has a career center which you can go freely to talk to a counselor. The counselor helps you in anything such as helping for a interview or signing up for internship. The center also offers clothes you can use to go to interviews. Cal Poly is very serious in getting jobs for the students they teach.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Cal Poly has the unusual tradition of having a huge campus party after finals week. The school provides grilled foods, and drinks for the students for their hard work in their finals. The school also created a campus wide activity called Zombies vs. Humans. All students can participate Cal Poly also has a very beautiful Japanese garden by their Admissions Office. it is open for anyone who goes there. The garden has Japanese trees and a pond filled with Koi and turtles.

Bang for the buck

The library has three stories which you can go up with an escalator. Depending on the level of the library, you can choose the level of quietness you want to study in. The library also contains many computers for the students, and research books which are very useful.

What to do for fun

Cal Poly has many things you can do because it is a big campus. You can bike, jog, and hike in the hills in the school. There is also a gym students can go to workout whenever they please. The school also has fun activities throughout the year, an example can be Zombies vs. Humans. This is when students chose whether they want to be a zombie or a human, and they chase each other around the campus. Another fun activity is the many groups the campus offers. Individual groups can participate in anything, such as making a rose float for the New Year's Rose Parade.

Food and Dining

Cal Poly has great Food and Dining places to choose from. Whether it is fast food, like Panda Express or fine dining like the Sage Restaurants they are all very good. These places are also located everywhere around the campus, making it very convenient. There are many fast food places including fancy restaurants. Some times during finals week, the Denny's in the campus sells their famous Grand Slam platter for only $5. Cal Poly does a great job in there food and dining giving them four stars.

Dorm Life

Cal Poly is located on a hillside of Pomona, making it surrounded by farming and wildlife. The campus is surrounded by trees and looks more like a park than a school. The rooms in the regular dorms are very small and cramped. The beds in the rooms are also very uncomfortable, being very thin and noisy. However, Cal Poly has built new dorms called Suites. First time freshmen ,unless your in a sport, cannot use this Suites. The Suites are very nice and is roomy compared the the regular dorms, making them more expensive.

Academic Rigor

Cal Poly is one of many CSU colleges that follow the UC system, making it difficult and challenging. Depending on what major you choose, the school gives you a Degree Curriculum Sheet containing all the class and units that you have to finish in order to graduate. The classes you need to take contain variety of subjects making it difficult to manage. However, many professors and some academic groups help, whether by tutoring or discussions. You also need to keep in mind that Cal Poly follows the quarter system, which goes in a very fast pace. This pace is difficult to follow in the beginning, but with hard work and rejection of procrastination it is possible. In conclusion, you need to focus on the pace of the quarter system and class requirements.

Tips for prospective students

First and foremost, you need to walk around the campus before starting to attend. Cal Poly has one of the largest campuses I've been to, making it difficult to find classes. Another tip is to bring a bike, skateboard, or a scooter when you attend, because the makes it easier to go to classes. This allows you to get there fast with less effort. Lastly and the most important is looking at your Cal Poly website on a daily basis. The school posts everything that happens around the campus, even personal ones. It is important because there are deadlines to almost anything, and it critical to know what you have to do in time.

In three sentences

I would rate Cal Poly as the number one school out of all the CSU system. This is one of many CSU colleges that follow the same system as UC colleges, making it a challenging and professional. Since it is also a Polytechnic university, it has varieties of majors to choose from.

Alison from Chino Hills, CA

Hotdog Caper: First Tuesday of the school year is all you can eat hotdogs, sodas, and ice cream during U-Hour. (The hour where no student on campus has class on Tuesdays and Thursdays)

Bang for the buck

Extremely affordable.

What to do for fun

Game room on campus as well as hiking around the hills, going to the gym, eating at the restaurants and more!

Food and Dining

Great restaurants, they're always adding new ones.

Dorm Life

I am a commuter, but I wish I could dorm because all my friends who do dorm say it's so convenient and the best way to stay involved on campus.

Academic Rigor

Requires a lot of your attention, as the quarter system moves fast!

Tips for prospective students

Always stay on your toes and start reviewing and studying from day one.

In three sentences

Effective learning as it is all hands on, so you earn more experience that looks better on resumes as compared to going to a UC college. Very affordable with a very diverse campus, you will always meet people with different views and values which broadens your perspective of how big the world really is.

CivilEng.

There are plenty of clubs on campus to satisfy your interests. The engineering department alone has over 40 clubs and organizations to get involved.

Great for these types of students

If you are a prospective engineering student Cal Poly Pomona is a must on your college list. It is ranked among the top in engineering programs offered across the nation, especially the Civil Engineering Program. Our engineering projects and performance in regional and national competitions is always among the top even beating some prestigious private universities.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Cal Poly has what it's called U hour which happens on Tuesdays and Thursdays from noon to one. During U hour no classes are scheduled on campus so every student and faculty can hang out! For this reason most, if not all club meetings are scheduled at this time on different weeks as well as any other major events.

Bang for the buck

Overall, a good value for the money. You can receive an excellent undergraduate education at a relatively affordable price.

What to do for fun

It may not be a huge party school like UCSB but there is stuff to do around campus. The LA County Fair is a big thing, Cal Poly students get a discount and once a year the President of the school, student leaders, and club representatives participate in the Fair's parade, a cool way of showing school pride!

Food and Dining

The main dining hall is Los Olivos and the food is pretty good. Like in all college, however, the food get old after a while but there are plenty of other places to buy food. On campus there is a Panda Express, Carl's Jr., Subway, Sushi place, Qdoba, Round table pizza, Starbucks, among others but my favorite is the Poly Fresh store which sells natural and organic food, including some things from the school's farm store.

Dorm Life

I am a commuter so I cannot give a lot of insight on the dorm life. Dorms for upperclassmen are definitely nicer than those for freshmen, however, some freshmen can actually apply to live in the suites for upperclassmen, depending on the spots available.

Academic Rigor

So far I have only taken introductory and low level core classes and GEs which have made this quarter not as challenging as I thought. However, next quarter once I start taking more units and my science classes I expect to have a much more challenging quarter.

Tips for prospective students

Although taking AP classes in high school is not required, accepting the challenge will definitely make your life easier. A lot of students think they're doing themselves a favor by getting easy As in high school but this path will lead to a crude awakening in college. I took several AP courses and received college credit for several of them which was nice because I was able to skip some courses. On top of that, having experienced the high level of rigor of AP classes has helped to make my transition from high school to college easier.

In three sentences

If you are looking for a great college that will give you plenty of opportunities to apply what you learn in the classroom Cal Poly Pomona is the college for you! It has been only my first quarter at Cal Poly and I have already been exposed to a myriad of opportunities that students have to get involved in projects where they can put into practice the concepts they learn in the classroom, exemplifying their Learn by Doing motto. There's a great environment on campus, you don't have to learn from teacher assistants because all classes are taught by professors and overall, it's a great school for undergrads.

Food is healthy and have many choices. Vegetarian options are included.

Dorm Life

Dorms are set up in a way where all students can work together very well.

Academic Rigor

It is especially difficult for engineering majors.

Tips for prospective students

Think about a balance between social life and education.

In three sentences

It is one of the most underrated engineering schools in the nation. Professors are very experienced and know what they are talking about. Students are all very like minded but most are in the engineering field.

Marea from Indio, CA

12/12/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Tips for prospective students

Always stay focused and do not get to consumed with social life and study hard! The social life is great especially greek life although do not forget what your main goal is which is an education towards your future!

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is a diverse, and flourishing campus. Cal Poly has great educational opportunities for students and their major. They are a hands on community and readily prepare you for the workforce.

Alicia from Lancaster, CA

12/13/2012

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Greek Life

I am personally in a sorority and i find it to be a fantastic experience and i suggest rushing to every incoming student even if it is simply to make friends and not for the intent to join an organization.

What to do for fun

There are many options of on campus events but on by BEATS. they are all fun and bring the students closer together in a community.

Tips for prospective students

My tip for prospective students is to visit, the tour leaders are great with conveying the spirit of the school and participate in many different organizations making it easy for them to answer questions about student life.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is a fantastic choice of schools for students who learn based off of hands on experience. Every one of my professors has been phenomenal and interactive with students. I can truly say the educational experience is great.

Pryscila from Ventura, CA

Campus police available 24/7 with an escorting system in case you don't feel safe walking around at night.

Clubs and Activities

Plenty of clubs and activities for any of your hobbies.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Keith Kellogg, founder of the school (and Kellogg's cereals), was superstitious so all over the school everything is in 7s.

What to do for fun

You're right on the edge of San Bernardino and LA County, so you have plenty of options for what you wanna do within a half-hour drive. There's a bowling rink down the street, night clubs in downtown Pomona, and others.

Food and Dining

You have plenty of dining options here. You have the dining hall, Panda Express, Taco Bell, Carl's Jr., smoothies, and many other similar options all at the same or cheaper prices than regualr.

Dorm Life

Basically everyone in the dorms is extremely nice, and you have three different options for housing: you have the dorm halls (small rooms, shared bathrooms, no kitchen), suites (bigger rooms, two restrooms per 4 people, and a kitchen), and the university village (basically an apartment).

Academic Rigor

I'm an engineering major so of course it's going to be hard. However, it is still possible to maintain a social life outside of school.

Tips for prospective students

-Be prepared for a very fast-paced experience because we are on the quarter system, not semesters. -Scooters and bikes are good to bring here since you have lots of up- and downhills.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is a VERY diverse, well-rounded university. You will never feel left out here academically or socially as there is any possible type of student you can think of attending here. It is a green campus with trees, squirrels, bunnies, and other naturey things you can think of.

Gebre from Fontana, CA

go to the mall. Party events they have are extremely fun. also they have broncofusion which is really enjoyable as well. Midnight madness which is like a huge party on the friday night before finals.

Tips for prospective students

This school is not just for engineer, but for everyone in general who wants to apply. the weather is never too bad. it may get hot but never too cold.

In three sentences

Cal poly Pomona is a great university overall. They are known for their engineering however, you learn so much more there as well. Along with the hands on activity that you don't get from most schools, Cal poly has a welcoming environment where they immediately make you feel at home with them.

AsAFreshmanGirl

There are campus police and a police station on campus. Pomona also provides a safety escort service for when you need a ride to your car at night or back to your dorm room.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There are horse on campus that you can go see. Pomona also makes a float for the Rose float parade.

What to do for fun

There are many clubs that you can join that would have fun activities. There is also the Games Room in the Bronco Student Center. Usually there would be different activities posted around campus every week.

Food and Dining

There is a wide variety of fast food and dining options. There is your usual fast food places like Taco Bell or Carl's Jr. Besides those, there are also more less typical fast food places like Kikka Sushi or Qdoba. There is also the dorm commons which is buffet style.

Dorm Life

I currently dorm here on campus in the freshman dorms. It is pretty basic, but the rooms were bigger than I expected. You share the bathroom with your floor but it is cleaned about twice a week so it is pretty clean. The students living there aren't too crazy either.

Academic Rigor

I haven't experience much of the academics here yet, but so far in the classes that I took, it wasn't that hard.

Tips for prospective students

Have good walking shoes because there are hills everywhere !

In three sentences

The campus is very beautiful besides the many hills. The people are friendly and it can be easy to make friends with them. There are also many resources that can be found about anything on campus.

Ruby from Los Angeles, CA

The times I have been on campus I felt safe, there has only been one incident I have heard of. The school makes sure the students are ware if there is a danger in school by emailing them about it.

Greek Life

I am personally not apart of any sorority but I have roommates that are. They seem to enjoy it and it is a way to be involved on campus , besides it looks good on a resume.

Clubs and Activities

There is clubs based on majors, ethnicity and interest. If a student does not find a club they are interested in they may begin a new one.

Great for these types of students

Cal Poly Pomona is perfect for students that want to focus mainly on their education. Also these students have to be looking forward to being apart of a small friendly university.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

As of now I do not know of any traditions but I look forward to finding out.

Bang for the buck

It is affordable university to attend but dorming can be expensive.

What to do for fun

In order to know about activities it is best to be involved in a club or sorority. Every month we receive a list of activities students may participate on as well.

Food and Dining

There is a lot of food choices at Cal Poly Pomona, my favorite are Subway and Qdoba. There is definitely something for everyone.

Dorm Life

I am not currently living in the dorm life but have experienced it before. Dorming I would say allows one to meet a lot of new people, though it is very expensive, it is convenient for freshman students. That is how I meet the current students I am living with.

Academic Rigor

Cal Poly Pomona is a quarter system as a result, classes goes at a fast pace. This system makes it difficult to catch up if one has a bad grade. Other then that I do not have any other problems with this university.

Tips for prospective students

I would suggest they are aware of all deadlines because if one is missed it may affect them. Therefore, they should learn to manage their schedule. This will insure you to become an organize student.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is surrounded by a calm and peaceful environment. It is a diverse university that allows anyone to feel like they fit in. When it comes to the staff, they help lead students to the the path to success.

KT

Honestly, there are quite a few happenings on campus. During night though, you may always call for an escort.

Greek Life

Greek Life is do-able for some people, and not for others. It is truly up to your own preference. However, do keep in mind that you might have to be somewhat strong-minded as people do tend to look at your letters with disgust. Don't let this turn you away completely though as there are plenty of activities and get-togethers that you'll love to do with your sisters or brothers. Additionally, Cal Poly Pomona has a strict no-hazing policy; it is easier for the sororities or fraternities to get caught for hazing since there are only a few of them.

Clubs and Activities

There is plenty to do on campus; however, I have to admit that some clubs don't put themselves out there as much as others. Certainly there are a few flyers in a spot here or there but they can be difficult to find at times. On the positive side, there are always events happening almost every week.

Bang for the buck

Honestly, most of the teachers do care about how well you are doing in class--they constantly mention past concepts in order to help you remember them; they give plenty of real-life examples to better understand the material; their office hours are usually easily accessible.

What to do for fun

Basically, join a club. Without a club, you can definitely miss out on a lot of the fun. There is the Rose Float Club that actually lets you have hands-on work on the actual building of the Rose Float which is perfect for Engineers or designers. Additionally, there are the different Cultural Clubs which are very active and always have their own events going on weekly.

Food and Dining

If you do decide to live in the dorms, be prepared to get really repetitive meals at the dining commons. Sometimes the meals can have a very unique taste too which is awfully difficult to adjust to. There are good food places inside the campus though that make up for some of it: Qdoba, Carls Jr., Panda Express, and Subway.

Dorm Life

The downside of dorm life is that you don't really have any exciting themes like Superheroes and such. In fact, the dorms are really dull. On the bright side though, quiet hours are not strictly enforced (except on days of finals) and plenty of people are always up in the lobby. I've heard from my friends that some people play the wii, sit up and play cards, and have quite a few movie nights.

Academic Rigor

As a first year, I can't exactly estimate how rigorous the courses are. However, I will say that the school truly does go by it's learn-by-doing policy which does add to the challenge. Rather, it can be said that the challenge can be found both inside and outside classrooms especially when you are a part of a club such as Rose Float.

Tips for prospective students

Basically, just get good grades. Cal Poly Pomona mostly picks people based on their scores on the SAT/ACT or report cards. Additionally, do try to visit the campus if you can; it'll help determine if this school is a good fit for you and perhaps increase your chances of getting in.

Whitney from Pomona, CA

Less than impressive. Homeless people are known to wander around at night and there was repeated theft this year. I can't remember if they caught the guy, but he did it several times in a row.

Greek Life

The Houses are scattered throughout Pomona. It seems disorganized and dangerous.

Clubs and Activities

Anything. Just get involved in something!

Great for these types of students

The agriculture students study on a farm. How cool is that?

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Rose garden is beautiful.

Bang for the buck

The school gym is on campus and only $18/mo. $2 for 2 Breakfast Sandwiches at the Carl's Jr on campus every morning. Then go to the gym :).

What to do for fun

Get involved. There's tons of recreation on campus, even for video game junkies. Rock climbing seems to be in right now.

Food and Dining

There's plenty on campus. Even more a small distance away. You'll be fine.

Dorm Life

Do it for one year, then find your own place with a friend that's close by. Get a bike.

Academic Rigor

There can be a lot asked of it's students. Models, projects, papers, assignments, tests. You will learn the skill of doing as well as thinking.

Tips for prospective students

Live on campus. There's plenty to eat and do and people to meet. Get involved. College is about interaction, socializing and learning about something you're interested in mixed in with classes you HAVE to take. It'll be the best 4 years of your life (of 10 in my case).

In three sentences

This is a very hands on school. You will learn by doing. It is a very hilly campus surrounded by excellent public transportation.

Leanne from La Verne, CA

A foam party was the last I attended. Wear a bathing suit and dance in a bunch of bubbles. I have heard of a Zombie walk which sounds pretty interesting.

Food and Dining

Lots of options! Panda Express, Subway, Sushi Bar, Bagel or Smoothie Shops, even their own market stocked with their own products.

Dorm Life

I live off campus, though everyone I talk to who does live on campus loves it

In three sentences

I have recently transferred and find the school to have raised the bar in my studies. It is a beautiful school and in a great location with easy access to freeways. All teachers are enthusiastic, helpful and enjoy their jobs.

Johanna from Moreno Valley, CA

02/11/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Police cars are always patrolling the area but to say this place is the safest place to be would be lying. Just this year there were two robberies made by the same guy. not to scare any potential freshman but security has been better and nothing that bad has yet to happen again.

Great for these types of students

People coming to this school looking for excitement tend to hate it here. there isn't much to do on the weekends on campus unless you bring your car so you can drive to different places.people who want to get away and just want to relax tend to love it here.

What to do for fun

I guess this is the downside, i didn't find much to do for fun on campus. There are foosball tables in the suites that one could go and enjoy. Theres also an arcade on campus that you could go to. oh i forgot! every first Friday ASI tends to throw free events for students to enjoy.

Food and Dining

One thing i didn't like about Los Olivos was that after a while you get tired of eating the same thing. but what i love about the campus there's different places you cold go and eat. such as panda express,taco bell,carl's jr, subway, and Denny's just to name a few.

Dorm Life

I decided to live on campus in the suites. The freshaman only get one building for the suites and it comes from a first come first serve. the suites come with a kitchen,living room ,two restrooms and depends on what living arrangements you have 3 roommates that you will have to share the small apartment with . I chose the suites because of the privacy. From what ive heard about the dorms is that its very social and fun.

Academic Rigor

Freshman year isn't all that too rigorous. But Ive heard from juniors and sophomores that it does get harder as years go by. From the classes Ive taken its been fairly easy in the sense that your keeping up with class assignments and homework.

Tips for prospective students

If you plan on attending this college take a tour first. Its the second largest cal state so just keep in mind that its a lot of walking and you will get lost on your first day. Also buildings are confusing to find since there not in numerical order.

In three sentences

lets just say cal poly Pomona wasn't what i was expecting. It was my back up plan but somehow instead of feeling disappointed that i didn't get into the college that i wanted i ended up being content about my choice. Cal poly Pomona makes you feel welcome and you don't feel out of place and i love that.

Derek from Southern Calif.

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

Go to the beach, go skiing or snowboarding in the nearby mountains like Mountain High in Wrightwood or Bear Mountain in Big Bear.

Food and Dining

Not far from L.A., Rancho Cucamonga, or other great places to eat in So. Cal.

Dorm Life

Beautiful campus, located right in the middle of Southern California

Academic Rigor

Lower level Math, Science and English courses can be hard to get into, and this will get worse due to budget cuts, but this can be expected at any state university.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure that you apply early

In three sentences

Cal Poly has a beautiful campus, and is located right in the middle of Southern California. My friend says the professors are great, and he is enjoying all of his classes. I can't wait to go next fall!

The campus has a Biotrek which consists of different plants and animals and is a cool place to visit!

What to do for fun

There are many clubs to join and there is always free food during lunch time from different clubs. You don't even have to be a member to receive free food either!

Food and Dining

I love that they have an on-campus Starbucks!

Dorm Life

I do not live on campus but I hear great things.

Tips for prospective students

Cal Poly Pomona is a great school to attend and they have a lot of great activities and clubs to choose from!

In three sentences

The school offers a wide range of majors and classes. I love that the teachers really care about each student and they offer activity classes which helps improve your grade. Plus, the campus is beautiful!

Elma from Pasadena, CA

Joining clubs and even Greek life provides stuff to do here for fun. Hanging out with friends, hiking, swimming or even going to the campus gym allows you to meet new people and have a great time.

Food and Dining

The Los Olivos commons here at Cal Poly provides us a wide variety of foods so that you can choose whatever you feel like that day to eat. The variations in meals provides a fulfilling experience to last throughout the day and very tasty as well.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is fun. I've met life - long friends here. First year of college can be tough but when you get to know people it allows the potential for you to help each other get through tough times and experience the college life together.

Academic Rigor

The academics are rigorous. But it is well worth it. I have learned so much in just my first year here at Cal Poly. It has put my life into perspective.

Tips for prospective students

Attend class and participate. Get involved in clubs and be proactive. Definitely recommend live on campus to get the college experience.

In three sentences

Cal Poly has a great diverse environment. I love the atmosphere and the professors are very helpful. The academics include hands-on activities and a lot of interactive learning.

Alexandra from Torrance, CA

03/10/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The campus police are on call 24/7 to escort you to and from any location, and I have used this service repeatedly when my classes get out late. Of course there is the occasional violent act or theft, but this is true with any university, especially one surrounded by woods. I would recommend all women to carry mace on them anyways, at a university or not, but these events are rare.

Greek Life

The Greek life on campus is becoming more and more active, with more and more people joining the fraternities and sororities. I have been to many parties, and they always keep everyone entertained while ensuring safety with hired security staff.

Clubs and Activities

There are over 150 clubs on campus, and there is one for everyone. There are multiple club fairs, and everyone I know is involved in at least one club. Cubs are a great way to make connections, and these are essential in the real world.

Great for these types of students

Cal Poly is great for LGBT students, asian-pacific islander students, African American students, and Native American Students (as they each have their own student unions). Realistically, it is a great school for anyone who wants a great education without being in the pretentious society of any other well-known universities. Reality check: your educations are exactly the same no matter what school you choose.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Every year, the day before school starts, we have a huge club fair/concert called Broncofusion. The concert has featured Awolnation, Plain White Tees, and several rappers. Also, the Friday before finals week, we have midnight madness, which is essentially a giant rave/party that goes all night and features all sorts of different activites, not to mention lots of free things!

Bang for the buck

At the rate of tuition you pay for Cal Poly, you get quite a bit in return. I would recommend this school to anyone.

What to do for fun

The school offers events CONSTANTLY, so you will see flyers for events all the time on campus. Also, downtown Pomona/Claremont has a great nightlife and social scene, which is just a little while away. There are, of course, the fraternity parties, which recently featured the rap group Starting Six. Overall, there is quite a bit to do.

Food and Dining

There are so many places to eat on campus including Panda Express, Qdoba, a sushi/teriyaki place, Subway, Carls Jr, Starbucks, etc. Plus there are minimarts called PonyExpress found throughout campus the provide essentials such as snack and energy drinks. Off campus food is also close by, and there are quite a few good places nearby.

Dorm Life

The dorm life is VERY social, with people making friends all the time. You will never have a problem finding someone to talk to or something to do. Plus, there is a basketball court, pool, and gym just for dorming students.

Academic Rigor

The classes are only 10 weeks long, and with professors who are truly amazing at their fields, they do not always come across as amazing when teaching. Expect to be pushed (but not too hard) by your instructors, and expect to learn how to be self sufficient study-wise.

Tips for prospective students

Don't bring too much stuff if you intend on living in the dorm, learn to make new friends through your classes, and learn all their is to know about how to do research for classes that require writing assignments. Also, be prepared for A LOT of work compared to high school, since we have 10 week quarters.

In three sentences

The campus is absolutely gorgeous, but beware of walking up hills all day long! The professors try their hardest with the budget cuts and some lack of current technology, but never turn away students asking for help. Also, we have a great basketball team and a growing social life that many students find very exciting!

Bronco Fitness Center, get involved with clubs, make friends and adventure around.

Food and Dining

The Commons is terrible except for omelettes in the morning.

Dorm Life

Dorms aren't very great, but you do make friends.

Academic Rigor

As an engineering student be ready for some long nights.

Tips for prospective students

Study and do not get too distracted with college life. Remember, you're here for an education and they will give you one.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is a great place to study engineering due to its hands on learning. Along with the type of education; it is filled with multiple clubs, which allow a student to get involved a lot. Whether a person is involved or not, the campus provides students with so much stuff that no one can get bored.

Melissa.

03/31/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

There are different activities that ASI coordinate that are fun and friendly for everyone. Events such as homecoming week, talent shows, free food and many other things here and there. For those who are adventurous, there is a trial to hike to get to the CPP letters on top of a mountain/hill. For those who like food, there are lots of booths that sell cheap food for different clubs and activities.

Food and Dining

Once again, i do not dorm but during orientation i got the chance to try Cal Poly's food and dining and it was clean with lots of variety!

Dorm Life

I personally do not dorm, for i am a commuter. But, the majority of the friends i have made here in Cal Poly tell me that the dorm life is pretty awesome. The R.A's make events that are help people who dorm make lifelong friends. Beside the community bathrooms, people who dorm seem to be more sociable and comfortable in the surrounding of their school!

Academic Rigor

Cal Poly's professors are fair (although there are some that are a bit more strict than others) and how much you put into your work is truly going to be reflected into your grade. College shouldn't be taken lightly, and once you set a goal in mind, your academic rigor will follow.

Tips for prospective students

Always be alert with what activities are going around you! There is always something that benefits everyone. Be aware of deadlines, don't be afraid to socialize (everyone is friendly) and get on a close level with your counselors! They are the ones who will help you throughout your college years.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is a diverse school with a variety of majors to offer. Because of its Polytechnic status, the majority of the different majors get to experience hands on work, getting straight into the field of your desired career. Socially, Cal Poly is a great school to make friends, become active in a school/community setting and is a safe environment.

Cristina from Covina, CA

They have a police station on campus and also there are poles in which you can call for help in case an emergency arises.

Clubs and Activities

There are clubs that have to do with a lot of majors available there.

What to do for fun

I only dormed at the school for three days for orientation so I wouldn't really know.

Tips for prospective students

Bring wallking shoes to school, and join clubs to stay involved.

In three sentences

Big, green, and animals everywhere. Definitely a perfect school for a pre-vet student. The classes are hands on which definitley makes it live up to its motto learn by doing. The teachers are nice and experienced so they have no problem showing you how you need to do things.

Isaac from South Pasadena, CA

06/27/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The campus itself is a fairly safe place but the surrounding city of pomona can be quite dangerous. There have been times in the past where strangers from off campus have robbed students but this is not common and it should be noted that similar instances occur at many schools. And with this said I can say that as a runner i have spent a lot of time around the campus at very late hours and I have never seen or experienced any kind of crime on the campus.

Greek Life

There is a fair bit of greek presence on campus but I would still say that it is still below average compared to other schools. The frat houses are located in pomona and so are often times not in the safest neighborhoods. The sororities

Clubs and Activities

There are a wide range of club and activities spanning all disciplines and from experience I can say that these clubs are fun, enriching, and a great way to meet new people.

Great for these types of students

I believe that there is something for everyone at cal poly pomona. We have great academics and sports programs and many of our clubs consistently place very high in nationwide and regional competitions. With this being said there are some areas where cal poly is especially strong, and some where while it is not lacking it is also nothing exceptional. Engineering and architecture are very big here and it is largely because of the staff composed largely of industry professionals. Because of the attention these departments receive, cal poly is largely seen as an engineering school. For majors like business however, there is little that separates cal poly from any other school. Business is nonetheless a big major here, but there are plenty of other school which are stronger at this subject.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The CPP letters which rest on a hill overlooking the campus are re-painted weekly. Various clubs and campus organizations will go up and paint the giant concrete letters with colors and symbols which represent themselves.

Bang for the buck

This school has been consistently ranked as one of the best college experiences for the cost. It has one of the leading civil engineering programs in the country and also boasts impressive programs in architecture, hotel and restaurant management, and agriculture. I would highly recommend this school to anyone pursuing an engineering degree or otherwise who is looking for the college experience without breaking the bank.

What to do for fun

Downtown pomona is a great place to hang out. There are a wide variety of restaurants and two prominent concert theaters. And if this is not to your liking there are mountains 45 minutes one way and downtown LA 45 minutes the other way.

Food and Dining

The food for the most part is decent. It mostly consists of a bunch of fast food joints and an ok dining hall. The crown jewel of campus dining is the restaurant at the collins college of hotel and restaurant management, which is a 4 star, student run restaurant. The restaurant accepts dining dollars and is a great place for banquets.

Dorm Life

While the dorms themselves are older and sometimes oddly designed, the connections you make through dorm life will be essential to the whole of your college career here. Most of the college friends I have now are people i met freshman year through hall and interhall activity. Living with a roommate, while frustrating at times, is also essential because it forces you to learn how to live with other people, and provides you with an easy friend option. Some of the most fun I've had in college i had when I was living in the dorms. I highly recommend the dorm life.

Academic Rigor

I have met some of the smartest most hardworking people i've ever seen at cal poly pomona. The school is known for its great programs and so attracts an academic crowd. This being said, no one is going to whip you into shape, the work you put in yourself is equal to the knowledge and experience you get out of the college.

Tips for prospective students

Get in involved early and don't fool around too much with your academics freshman year. With this said, have fun whenever you can, it will be quite easy to do.

In three sentences

Cal poly pomona is a great school for anyone who is interested in a great education for less than most other places. There are numerous majors, sports, clubs, and other activities which should make you feel at home no matter who you are. I would personally rate this school in the top 10 percent of schools with similar emphasis.

Aracely from Pasadena, CA

Police is always roaming around and services are offered if you do not want to walk to your car late at night.

Greek Life

there is a very diverse selection to choose from.

Clubs and Activities

They are all very fun and focus on community service as well as academics.

Great for these types of students

outgoing agriculture animal lovers engineers business

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

midnight madness bronco fusion undierun

What to do for fun

There are so many activities that is put on by ASI so there is never a dull moment. There are also many amazing speakers that come to campus.

Food and Dining

There is a broad selection of healthy and non healthy food. After four years a change would be nice, but i can't complain =)

Dorm Life

Dormed my whole college years! It was amazing and I made life time friends that i consider to be family now.

Academic Rigor

All of the professors are amazing and very helpful when you ask for help. Very passionate about what they are teaching also.

Tips for prospective students

Always use the schools resources. Never feel intimidated or scared to ask for help, becasue we all need it at some point. GO TO OFFICE HOURS!!!

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is an amazing campus. There is so many resources and support that every student is given the opportunity to accomplish their dreams. It is also very diverse and it allows you to make friends with students from all ethnic backgrounds!

Stephanie from Chino Hills, CA

07/29/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

Unfortunately, Cal Poly Pomona has its share of thefts and break-ins, just like any other university. All students are urged to enter the campus police phone number into their contact list at the beginning of their student career. There are also several emergency stations located throughout campus where students can press a button and a police cruiser will come along for even little things, such as escorting a student to his or her car down a dark walkway or through an ominous parking lot.

Greek Life

Joining a fraternity or sorority is always a way for students to more deeply connect with one another and share feelings of kinship and unity. The Greek life on campus is very welcoming and inviting in spite of the exclusiveness. I've personally volunteered at a sorority's (of which I was not a part of) fundraising event and can attest to the amicability and kindness of the girls running the event.

Clubs and Activities

There's a club for just about every major at the school, so students are encouraged to at least join their major's corresponding club. At freshman orientation, there is also a club fair that introduces new students to clubs that target specific interests rather than purely academic matters. Club meetings are held during a time called U-Hour, in which few class sections are scheduled, so most students will be able to attend.

Great for these types of students

Animal lovers won't be able to get enough of Cal Poly Pomona. Animal (Health) Science majors take classes involving cows, sheep, pigs, and horses, but even other majors can always visit the animals in their units. On Saturday mornings, a petting zoo is available for those who want to get close to their furry friends.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

One scarcely visited location on the campus is the Japanese garden. Located near the CLA building at the front of the school, it provides a peaceful and isolated area to study, meditate, de-stress, or just relax. There is even a pond where students can watch koi fish swim about and listen to the calming sounds of a gentle waterfall.

Bang for the buck

Tuition has been steadily rising since I have been enrolled in Cal Poly Pomona and my friend, a junior, has told me that the total tuition for one quarter used to be less than $1000 when he was a freshman...whereas now it is over $2000. Lots of services are included in tuition fees, such as access to the wellness center, but most students don't take advantage of such services anyway. The only consolation for blowing away all of one's money on expensive textbooks, tuition, parking permits, etc. is that the money is going into a college degree.

What to do for fun

There are plenty of events going on at the school at any given time. The biannual games of Humans vs. Zombies are fun and extensive games of tag that every student can participate in. There are also other facilities on campus that can be used for recreation, such as the art gallery, theater, and game room at the Bronco Student Center.

Food and Dining

There is a tasty and nutritious range of foods across the campus. Such restaurants as Denny's, Panda Express, and Carl's Jr. offer students familiar and cheap foods. There are also vending machines that hold quick snacks or beverages, many of which are healthy options.

Dorm Life

The dorms at Cal Poly Pomona are not very nice at all. They are small and cramped, all residents of one gender must share the same restrooms (which may require showering at odd times of the day in order to avoid lengthy lines), and cockroaches and ants have been spotted in various different dorm rooms. The only advantage to living in a dorm at the school is that classes are nearby and it provides a cool and quiet place to relax and do homework or study (depending on one's roommate).

Academic Rigor

The academic courses at Cal Poly Pomona are on par with those of other California State universities. There is an Honors College, but the Honors courses offered usually are not any more challenging than a general course; the main difference is that class sizes are 15-20 students. The challenge of one particular course often depends on the professor teaching it; depending on the instructor, any course can be made fun and easy or difficult and stressful.

Tips for prospective students

It is highly recommended that students research their professors before enrolling in a course, because one bad teacher can make an otherwise fun subject a living nightmare. If a friend is up for it, try to carpool whenever possible; there are some prime driveshare parking spots near the front of the school if students try to conserve gas by driving together. Bring a bottle of water each day, too, because walking up and down the hills on campus to get from one class to another can get tiring.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is a great school, especially for aspiring engineers or majors within the College of Agriculture. The campus is very scenic, which makes the walks between classes relaxing and pleasant. Tolerance and friendliness are two traits among the student and staff population at this liberal school.

Miranda from San Pedro, CA

07/31/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Food and Dining

It is definitely an adjustment from moms cooking but not bad at all. I like to have healthy options all the time like avocados that my next door neighbor gave me when I was living at home. The dining options do offer healthier alternatives though.

Dorm Life

Ok the dorms are not the most beautiful but the people are amazing! You always have someone to talk to or meet. I highly recommend going to welcome week.

Academic Rigor

Very fast, we are on a quarter system so try to keep up. If you need help get it immediately.

Tips for prospective students

Apply! You wont regret it, this year I was surprised I got in with the 16% acceptance rate. Biology and Business majors are very impacted so heads up.

In three sentences

I love the campus it is so beautiful and there are so many activities that go on everyday. I am living in the dorms my first year and it is the best decision I ever made. You meet so many new people everyone is very friendly.

Damian from Lynwood, CA

07/31/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

On campus, there is not much to do. But the campus is surrounded by nearby cities with plenty of activities for all. From theaters to farmers markets and many downtown districts with restaurants and shops.

Food and Dining

Like many campuses, Cal Poly offers plenty of fast food dining and some restaurants not too far from campus. But the los olivos commons area on campus offers a buffet for all at an affordable price.

Academic Rigor

Depending on the program, the workload can be overwhelming if you do not prepare.

Tips for prospective students

Be prepared for an abundance of work constrained into the quarter system.

In three sentences

Cal Poly is a great school. It is a beautiful campus with plenty of landscape and an excellent school for the careers of architecture, engineering, and agriculture. But there are many other good programs offered as well.

Bryan from Rancho Cucamonga, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Bang for the buck

YES. The student tuition/fees are a bargain for all that Cal Poly has to offer, either academically, socially, and athletically.

What to do for fun

Next year, Cal Poly Pomona plans to open a brand new, main recreational center, complete with courts, tracks, a complete gym, and concession stands. The campus also has a student center with familiar fast foods, an arcade, pool table room, info center, and dance area. The ASI of campus regularly plan large events to mix things up for the student body.

Food and Dining

The campus contains lots of opportunities, from grabbing a bite on the go to dining at commercial and student-run restaurants.

Dorm Life

The dorms are clean, but in need for an upgrade or facelift. The main buildings for dorms are almost 30 years old.

Academic Rigor

Cal Poly Pomona stresses education as the top priority, and I've heard from returning students about the demand for dedication and organization to be successful at the university.

Tips for prospective students

Enjoy and ask as many questions possible during orientation. Take a few trips on your own to visit the campus and look around. Browse around Bronodirect on your own, make sure you can find your way through admission requirements using the campus website. Take all the incentives, help, and advice you can get.

In three sentences

Cal Poly is an underrated university built with opportunities. With the foundation of Learning by doing, the school prides itself on a high standard of learning, and great degree of instructing. Many people in the area don't realize how great this school is.

Bronco

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

Pomona has pleenty of clubs to join, over 300. They also have a game room. Its very dead on the weekend though.

Food and Dining

The food is very repetitive so you'll get sick of their food easily, especially at Olivos. So, don't get the same food everyday try to eat in circle. Also, the campus has plenty of restaurants just in case you get tired of the food at olivos.

Dorm Life

Well, I dorm at encinitas and I say it is the best hall out there, its very very clean. And there's plenty of stuff to do there.

Academic Rigor

Cal Poly Pomona has the learning by doing. They challenge you, especially engineering degrees cause they want the best engineers to come from cal poly pomona.

Tips for prospective students

Be very open to anyone like don't be shy cause once you open up, that's when you start actually enjoying the college life. Everyone is friendly. Also, treat teachers as if they're your 2nd parents or best friends.

In three sentences

The first time i've set my foot at Cal Poly Pomona i felt breezes that I have never felt in my life. Also, birds chirping around you, which makes the environment very ease and peaceful. The faculties and the employees are very informative and helpful. Overall, 9/10.

Caschai from Los Angeles, CA

The school could definitely be safer. It's an open campus so anyone can walk on the campus. There has been crime scenes like mugging, or break-ins that have happened.

What to do for fun

For fun you can join the different clubs they offer on campus or the intramural sports they offer. It's not much to do around the campus, so the school tries to do some exciting things on campus. On a normal weekend either one of the frats are having a party or you just find or hear of other things.

Food and Dining

The food on campus is cool but you soon get tired of it and want more variety.

Dorm Life

I would highly advise many to live on campus for at least a year or two for the experience. The dorms aren't that nice but you get meet many new faces and do outrageous, off the wall things with them. The suites is a little different and are for students that likes a little more privacy. They are really spacious and one of the nicest college housings that I've seen, compared to many other colleges. They are apartment style and it comes with a kitchen, dining and living room area, balcony, 2 bathrooms, and you usually share it with 4 people.

Academic Rigor

The professors real know what they are teaching and are very knowledgable many other topics, but some are hard, medium, or easy. It all comes down to the type of student you are and the type of professor you get.

Tips for prospective students

The main key is balance. For kids that are living on campus this is most likely your first time being on your own.Know how to balance classes and a social life, because without one of those you will most likely not be able to get the full great experience of Cal Poly Pomona.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is a college that is not highly noticed by many high school students, but those who did will most likely agree they are lucky they did, educational wise. Especially students that are interested in Engineering should definitely look into this school, stating the fact that many companies know this school exceeds in that major. Cal Poly Pomona has great professors, sports, spirit, and a great atmosphere.

Dennis from Rancho Cucamonga, CA

08/15/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The campus has it's own police department and officers are constantly patrolling the area. I would rate the school as extremely safe considering you can usually find an officer cruising around the area or a public phone to dial the campus police in case of an emergency. The school also offers police escort services at no cost if a student does not feel safe traveling alone. The campus police are on duty 24 hours a day.

Greek Life

Personally, I'm not a part of this, but the people who are seem to love it more than anything. People a part of this have such strong bonds with their friends, you would think they were siblings.

Clubs and Activities

Far too many clubs to count. If you cannot find a club that suits your tastes, you probably aren't looking hard enough. Plus, it's a good way to find students with the same interest as you and it helps make friends. We all need friends to help us on the road to college.

Great for these types of students

The school is great for students who like small classes. Don't expect to ever find yourself in a huge lecture hall at Cal Poly. You'll find each class to hold around 30 students, so you'll have many opportunities for one on one learning. The school is a polytechnic school, which means it advocates hands on learning. Students who prefer this method of learning will be attracted to the school.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

The school is required under contract to host an Arabian horse show every year, or the Kellogg family, which originally owned the land, has the right to take it back.

Bang for the buck

The school tries to be as affordable to students as possible, but that amount is steadily increasing as time goes by and students will find annual tuition around $10,000.

What to do for fun

Clubs. There are so many clubs at the school it would be difficult for a person to not find one about something they are interested in. There are also yearly festivals on campus with a different theme every year. This school also takes part in the construction of a rose float featured in the famous Tournament of Roses held every year near the Rose Bowl. The school also has an arcade for all the gamers out there with games like Time Crisis 3 and dance dance revolution.

Food and Dining

The food is excellent. The school offers so many options from Subway to Panda Express. The school also stresses vegetarian options if that is a must for you. My favorite part of the dining experience here is the yogurt kiosk where you can customize a yogurt with over ten different toppings.

Dorm Life

The dorms on campus are very simple and offer only the most basic. A typical dorm will have three beds, two closets, two wardrobes, a desk, and not much else. electrical outlets are available and so is internet. Whatever else you want in your room, you'll probably have to bring in. All of this can be overlooked considering all you'll have a chance to meet new people, attend dorm activities, and form a strong bond with you people you dorm with.

Academic Rigor

The academics can be difficult, but oftentimes enjoyable. The general education classes which are mandatory to take may be more rigorous because they may have nothing to do with your selected major and you may have no interest in them. Professors will give a lot of work at times, but they will always give appropriate deadlines.

Tips for prospective students

Students who are attending this school should take advantage and research all of the different opportunities available to them at the school. There are so many, and nobody will tell you about them unless you search for them. New students here should also be aware of the quarterly based school system, which means the year is divided into three parts (four if you wish to attend over the summer). Students should take three classes at most to adjust to the quarter system.

In three sentences

The Campus itself is very welcoming and beautiful. Aside from the beauty, there is a wide arrange of learning opportunities and clubs to help students assimilate themselves into the school. The classrooms and small (up to around 30 students) which provides a more hands on learning experience.

Anthony from Rosemead, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

Cal Poly is in a location where without traffic, within 1 hour or less, you can be at the beaches, the bars, the LA nightlife, movies, malls, etc. It's definitely a commuter school.

Tips for prospective students

Try to carpool so that you can save money on parking. Join clubs! otherwise it'll be a boring college life and you won't be taking advantage of all the possible networking you could easily attain.

In three sentences

The location right off the 10 fwy is extremely convenient. Based on the orientation (which was very fun and informative), the way of teaching is more of a hands on approach which is less theory and more doing. I think I'm going to love it here.

Valerie

08/26/2013

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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Campus Safety

There are always campus police patrolling the campus, there is a police escort service you can use if you have a late night class and just don't feel comfortable walking to your dorm alone. There are emergency help stations placed all along the campus you can access.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

At Cal Poly Pomona there is a beautiful rose garden behind a japanese garden. There are also fields where our Agriculture students take care of livestock.

What to do for fun

The Bronco Student Center is filled with fun arcade games, pool tables, and TV screens, as well as that there are several clubs on campus to keep you entertained and active on campus. There are also two on campus gyms where you can go work out a sweat.

Food and Dining

Food from the dining commons is always good. They always like to keep a wide variety of food out for you to choose from as well as vegetarian options. If you happen to get tired of the dining commons food or are just not in the mood for it, there is an on-campus Denny's as well as a Subway, Panda Express, and campus markets.

Dorm Life

You can always find friendly and positive people in your dorm halls. You can make your dorm room a place of rest and relaxation and have fun in the main halls on the first floors. The study rooms are always open with white boards available for group study.

Academic Rigor

As in any college, your faculty will ask you to meet their standards for their class. You have to step up your game and more than anything learn how to study smart and manage your time wisely in order to succeed academically.

Tips for prospective students

Don't be afraid to use your campus resources! There are faculty, staff, and tutors that just wait for students to appear and ask for help.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is a community of diversity.There is always opportunity for growth. It has a beautiful campus with faculty and staff always ready to help if you ask.

Malissa from Santa Fe Springs, CA

Dorms are not worth the price, it would be better to commute if you are able to. You will save a lot of money.

Academic Rigor

Classes are reasonable in the level of rigor, since it is on a quarter system, classes go by fast so it is best to keep up with all of the assignments.

Tips for prospective students

Visit the campus if you are not sure if Cal Poly is for you.. you will fall in love with it!

In three sentences

The campus is beautiful and the students are very friendly about helping you find a building when you are lost which is a big plus! The library is huge and the tutoring programs available are very useful when you need help for class or just a quiet place to study. The campus has a very home-like feeling and you feel like you are at home when you are walking to class.

Clarissa from Whittier, CA

09/11/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Food and Dining

Los Olivos Dining is magnificent. Actually has been awarded fourth place for excellence in dining services from the National Association of College and University Food Services (NACUFS). Other fast food and restaurants are avaliable on campus as well.

In three sentences

This university is very eco-friendly with an initiative to execute sustainable practices and go green! Lovely campus, and affordable.

Jose from Moreno Valley, CA

10/04/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

The school at the beginning of the year do have a lot of activities. Such as Bronco Fusion and a foam party. Every first Friday of each month the school set up events. Tuesday and Thursday the school has something called U hour, which is from 12pm- 1pm. A lot of clubs meet up and have food and music and is really fun. The school also a building to play pool, xbox, arcade games, Foosball and ping pong. I believe on Saturdays its $5 for unlimited and Wednesday its $1 a day.

Food and Dining

There is a lot of places to eat. The main food commons named Los Olivos is like a buffet. Eat all you want and what not. But the school also has Carls Jr, Panda Express, Denny's, and much more. However most of them do close very early. expect for Denny's which is open until midnight.

Dorm Life

I love my dorm life. I am in the suites, much better than the halls. A bit more expensive but at least I have my owe room with kitchen and living room. I do share bathrooms with another person but much better than the whole hall. A bad thing is that the suites is more private so you do not meet much people as the halls.

Academic Rigor

The courses do get harder a long the way, but do not be discourage. There are a lot of tutoring, free tutoring, the school provide. I suggest use them. Yes they get boring and sometimes you feel discourage, but you are paying for it might as well use them. Even a tutoring program call CRSP gives a grant to certain amount of people at the end of the school year.

Tips for prospective students

I would suggest doing research first. Fine out which majors are impacted because it will get competitive. Even undeclared was impacted last year. While in high school try to take those AP classes but first find out if the school will accept the credit and towards what class. One thing I also learn what the school did, they did not keep admission decisions on track. They do not have a specific date when they let people know if they were admitted or not.

In three sentences

I am surprised that people here are a lot friendlier than I first thought. I love this campus and a lot of club opportunities as well. I would rate it a 9/10. Very diverse as well.

Susana from Pomona, CA

Food on campus is awesome because there are many different options to choose from there is literally something for everyone's

Dorm Life

I do not dorm on campus because I commute to campus but I have plenty of friends that do dorm so I'm pretty much at the dorms 24/7 so it feels like I do dorm. Being at dorms doing homework, working on projects or just hanging out the dorms are cool place to be.

Academic Rigor

The class difficulty ranges any where from easy to hard depending on where your academic strengths are at. Regardless of how hard your class is the professors are always there to help out as well as the tutoring services.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is the best campus to be at with its beautiful animals and plants. Cal Poly has some of the best teachers that go out of their way to help students pass their classes. Lastly though the campus is big it has many clubs where you can meet new people and make long lasting friends.

Ruth from El Monte, CA

10/22/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

VERY SAFE!! lighted blue poles are placed throughout the whole campus. They are lit at the top so you wont miss it incase of an emergency. In case you have a night class and you parked far away, you can call a security guard from those poles to take you to your car safely.

Clubs and Activities

Always get involved, it will help you throughout college. There are lots of clubs to choose from.

Bang for the buck

Eat at Einstein Bagels, they have a stamp card for every 10 bagels you buy, you get 1 free!

Everything is available to you. There are vending machines that sell scantrons, notebooks, pencils, etc. Any last minute items that cannot be purchased through the BroncoBookstore when it is closed. There are also academic teachers in the libraray that will assist you for any subject if you have trouble learning the material. Its free of charge, but you must schedule and appointment.

In three sentences

Great environment, there are trees and hills everywhere, including a secret trail that you can take to hike up the Collins college and from there you can see the overview of the whole campus. There are an abundance in the diversity of students, its great to know their culture and socializing with them will indeed help you to become more active as college student and well as being involved in school.

Virginia from Pasadena, CA

The food at the dining commons is pretty good. It can get boring if you go there for every meal every day but there are also other options on campus like Denny's, Qdoba, Subway, etc.

Dorm Life

The rooms are on the small side but the atmosphere is nice. A lot of people leave their doors open so it's easy to walk in and meet people.

Academic Rigor

The classes are pretty difficult but the professors are always willing to help if you make use of office hours or ask questions in class.

In three sentences

The campus is soooooooo beautiful! We have an Arabian horse center and many other animal facilities so there are a lot of opportunities to get hands on experience with animals if you are into that. Also, the professors are very willing to help their students.

Julia from Palmdale, CA

11/09/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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What to do for fun

For fun my roommates and I have movie nights with our friends and make dinner. Or we go out and have an adventure or go to party. There is a lot to go do in Pomona. If you don't feel like leaving the campus there is a game room that has arcade games, pool tables, Foosball tables, multiple xboxs, and bowling that you can pay to play.

Food and Dining

Usually I make my own food in my suite. If i do not feel like making anything I have a lot of other options on campus. There is a panda express, carl's jr., taco bell, jamba juice, dennys, subway, round table, Einsteins bagels, a sushi place, and a mexican place. I think that is everything.

Dorm Life

I do not actually live in the dorms, I live in the suites. Not all freshman can live in the suites. I was fortunate enough to get the chance to live in the suites because I was going to live in a triple in the dorms. All of my friends in the dorms say that it is loud and people are always coming by their rooms to hang out. Many say it is hard to do homework in their room and find it hard to say no when their friends want to hang out. Life in the suites is completely different. It seems like it is always quiet and it does not seem as social as in the dorms. Also, in the suites you can have your own room, depending on which floor plan you choose. Having your own room does not mean you have your own bathroom. You will share the bathroom with one other person. Each suite has a kitchen and a living room, which I personally love. In all, the suites are basically an apartment.

Academic Rigor

I am currently a freshman and I have 13 units for the fall quarter. Having 13 units is not that challenging. I have a lot of free time even after I get all of my homework done, and I am in two clubs. For winter quarter I will have more units, I plan on having at least 16 units. I also will already have a core class. As for now I would rate the academic rigor as a 2.

Tips for prospective students

Do not procrastinate! I suggest doing your homework right after class, while the information is still fresh in your mind. Create a study group and meet regularly so you can help each other and stay on track. Another thing future students can do is get involved and meet new people. You can do this by joining clubs or volunteering on campus. There are clubs for just about anything you can think of. Joining clubs is a great way to meet people in your major or just meet anyone. You can meet older people in your major and ask them for help with anything you need. One thing I really recommend is to join a program for your major if they have it. I am an engineering major and I'm in a program called Maximizing Engineering Potential. This program is a great way to make friends and stay on track with your major. They help you work as a team, which you will be doing in the future anyway, and helps the shy people break out of their shell. The last tip I have is to join the four-year pledge, even if you think you cannot do it. You will get priority registration and that is crucial! You will get the chance to get the classes you need. It is a great program to be a part of, especially if your class is only offered once or twice a year.

In three sentences

I would rate Cal Poly Pomona as a 5 so far. In the short amount of time that I've been attending Cal Poly, I have only had good experiences. Everyone is extremely helpful and there are a lot more resources than I thought.

Angelica from La Puente, CA

11/26/2013

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Comments

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

I dont consider this an unusual tradition but the friday before finals week we always have an event called midnight madness that provides a lot of fun activities for students to relax before finals week. We also have U-hour which is an hour break for all students every Tuesday and Thursday. No student on campus has class during this time which is usually when we have events or club meetings. One unusual event is every year we have our annual hot dog caper where students get free hot dogs, chips, soda, and ice cream.

What to do for fun

The Bronco Student Center is meant for students to relax and enjoy in between class. This is where our gym is located along with our games room and study rooms as well. There is also about 4 different food places. Opening in Fall 2014 we will have a recreational center that will several other things to do for fun on campus.

Food and Dining

There are many different food places including Dennys, Panda express, Subway, and the regular Los Olivos commons which is where students eat if they live in the dorms but it is open to all students. There are several options to choose from and are at affordable prices.

Dorm Life

The dormitories are not the best and are small. I only stayed in the dorms for two days for orientation and I was glad I didn't have to dorm for college.

Academic Rigor

Yes, college is a challenging process but with professor office hours available and free tutoring on campus it is not difficult to get the grade you want. You will learn a lot that will help you in your future career.

Tips for prospective students

Use all your resources including tutoring, career center, writing center, professor's office hours, jobs on campus, etc... If you are looking for a job I suggest to get one on campus using our website called Bronco Connections that provides of list of on campus jobs. On campus jobs are flexible and know that you are a student first. If you are commuter get involved to enjoy your college experience a lot more. We have over 100 different clubs so you are a variety of options.

In three sentences

It is a very community based that cares about the students success. The classroom sizes are small enough that allow professors to focus on students that need that extra help. There are several resources that help students become successful.

Robert from Pomona, CA

Enjoy the game room at the student commons or play a sport. Friends are how you have fun. Get involved in activities, there are plenty of them available. Humans vs. Zombies goes on twice a year.

Food and Dining

The meal plan is nice but there are many ways in which you lose your money. Try to keep a low meal plan and if you can keep up your own food supply. There are numerous facilities on campus which provide plenty of opportunities for dining. A food court is present as well as the normal dining facilities. Options are available.

Dorm Life

Making friends is important. Surround yourself with a community of people you know and respect. Have fun but don't forget about school. Get together with your friends and help each other out.

Academic Rigor

The difficulty of a class usually depends on the instructor. Some instructors teach better than others, however, there are plenty of opportunities to get help with subjects. The difficulty depends on the person.

Tips for prospective students

When looking for a college it's important to match it to your preferences. Low tuition is something to look for, although obtaining financial aid and scholarships can help you. Remember, you get what you put in. The reputation of the school will not guarantee you success. Your hard work and effort will be what pays off. The school provides the resources to further your education.

In three sentences

The university has amazing facilities in the engineering department. The university library is resourceful and a great place to work. Cal Poly is good school for those looking for an inexpensive reliable education.

Ashley from Pomona, CA

There is a variety of places to eat on campus. The food isn't top notch, but it's still delicious. Try to vary up the food when on campus or the result will be getting sick of the food.

Dorm Life

It is highly recommended that one dorms at least one year of their college life because that's where friends are going to be made. The freshman dorms are more social than the suites and the on-campus apartments, but that's if people try to be social.

Academic Rigor

There have been courses that are challenging, but there have been a couple of cases where the class was an easy A. It's all based off of how the professor teaches and whether or not a person decides to go to the office hours to obtain the help they need. Never take a class too lightly though, because a class may seem to be easy at first and then turn out to have difficult assignments.

Tips for prospective students

First off, this is going to sound too cliche, but it's the truth. Be involved with the school because if someone isn't involved, then he won't enjoy the college life. Whether it's a fraternity, sorority, band, clubs, or sports any of these will help a person enjoy their college experience. If there are obvious signs of struggling in a subject, go to the professor's office hours and get the help needed in order to pass the class; the professors are more than willing to help. Another thing is to find a job as early as possible, on campus jobs are quite easy to obtain if one looks for it. If people don't start with a part time job in their early college years, then they won't have work experience that careers are looking for. The last thing is to balance out the fun and studying because if there is too much of one thing, then as stated earlier, there won't be any fun due to being stressed out or even lack of fun.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona has a beautiful campus and most of the students are friendly. A majority of the professors are approachable and easy to get along with, which comes in handy if one is struggling with the subject. The ASI on campus has a good program that tries to get students to be more involved with each other to build a close knit campus community.

Eduardo from Gardena, CA

Campus safety is great, there is a patrol car around almost everywhere and that definitely highlights how important campus safety is at Cal Poly Pomona.

Greek Life

I've heard the Greek life at my school is great! Every sorority or fraternity seems to be legit and a family.

Clubs and Activities

The variety in clubs is great here at Cal Poly Pomona. There is literally a club for everything, I'm sure every student who will be attending will find a club that fits their personality/hobbies or interests.

Great for these types of students

This school is great for commuters as well as students seeking dorm life. Every freshmen seems to be united within the dorms.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

There aren't any of I can think of...

Bang for the buck

The school is great for its price, especially tuition because it is a Cal State.

What to do for fun

Make sure you visit the BSC or Bronco Student Center, as there are so many games that you can play with friends. The library has so many great reads and there will be a brand new student health center which includes Rock Climbing... etc.

Food and Dining

The food commons is okay to say the least, I feel like the student-workers could be better by at least making it look that they enjoy their job.

Dorm Life

Dorm life is great, why? because there are so many events within each dorm. Every dorm R.A. or Room Adviser, helps out.

Academic Rigor

Every class that I had so far has been a great experience. Every professor presents themselves on time for each class, the material is definitely doable.

Tips for prospective students

Make sure you utilize everything the college offers, whether is counseling services or the library. Do not think it will be an easy experience as the college faculty make you put a lot of effort in your studies.

In three sentences

California State Polytechnic University-Pomona, is by far a great experience. The students and faculty are great because the classrooms are often small. The class-sizes are definitely 30-40 students per teacher which is great for student and teacher relationships.

Kimberly from Whittier, CA

The food and dinning area is okay. They have a good variety of restaurant's but the dinning area can get crowded at times and tables are limited.

Dorm Life

I don't dorm so I cant rate what the dorm life is like at this campus.

Academic Rigor

Overall academically, I give the school a 10 out 10. I learned so much just in one quarter.

Tips for prospective students

I think for any transfer student like myself, prepare your self because transferring from a 2 year college to a 4 year college is a huge change because the atmosphere and the way things are done at a 4 year are a lot different from a 2 year even the students. I feel that students tend to think that they are smarter than the professors.

In three sentences

Its a beautiful campus the scenery is amazing but it is taking me time to adjust. I just finished my first quarter and so far I honestly don't care for it. The professors are very helpful and willing to work with you that's a plus.

Julia from Modesto, CA

There are a lot of different types of clubs to join so you will for sure find something to join. Clubs are a great way to make friends with similar interests.

Great for these types of students

This school is great for students who like the small classroom environment.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Don't cut roses from the rose garden or you will be fined $500. And don't try to climb the bronco statue or you will be fined $800.

Bang for the buck

Tuition is cheap, but housing is so expensive! The bookstore is also very expensive. If you commute than yes it will be cheap, but if you live on campus than be prepared to be broke.

What to do for fun

Go to the school run dances, concerts, and activities. They have a foam dance which is a ton of fun. They have concerts with actually good DJs. A must is Drag Queen Bingo.

Food and Dining

The dinning hall is okay. They have some really good food like their Mongolian bar and they have some really nasty food like their eggs. There are a lot of fast food places to eat here which is good when you are in a rush including: Subway, Carls Jr, Panda Express, Starbucks, Taco Bell, etc.

Dorm Life

I live in Cedritos which has 5 wall rooms and the pentagon shape really limits the space available. I recommend getting the four wall rooms. Close your door when you want to study otherwise you will be distracted easily and forget about going to sleep before 12pm because it is simply impossible.

Academic Rigor

This is not high school at all! Work is assigned the very first day of class sometimes you get an email from your professor before your first day of class. Classes are hard, but you learn so much useful material that transitions out of the classroom.

Tips for prospective students

Learn the bus system if you don't have a car otherwise you will be very bored on the weekends. Cal Poly Pomona uses a quarter system so keep up with the class readings because the quarter ends sooner than you think. Be friendly and make friends the first two weeks of school because social circles form fast in the dorms.

In three sentences

I made the right choice! So far all my instructors have been great and the campus is beautiful. However, it is a commuter school which means the weekends are pretty dead here.

Always ask. Don't be nervous. It is college. You are what you make yourself to be.

In three sentences

As a new student, it is reassuring to see that the professors here want you to succeed. If you put in the hard work and effort, professors will see that and they will try to help you out as much as possible. This campus encourages a carpe diem attitude

Taylor from Chula Vista, CA

01/10/2014

Reviewer is A past student here.

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What to do for fun

Lots of things to do in close proximity to Cal Poly. Lots of parties in the near by areas of pomona, and diamond bar. Downtown LA and Hollywood are a quick 30 mile drive west on the freeway. Multiple beaches only about 45min-1hr away. Snowboarding at Big Bear and Mt. High in the winter are a quick 1 hour drive east.

Food and Dining

Food is alright, normal stuff like subway, starbucks, panda express, carls jr, taco bell, denny's. Food in the commons isn't bad, there's a lot of variety but eating there everyday will definitely get you that freshman fifteen

Dorm Life

Dorm life is pretty fun, i'd say only about 15% of the students live on campus but it's always growing. Those that do live in the dorms will definitely make a lot more lasting friendships than if you didn't. Everyone should experience the dorms at least for 1 year. It's a great growing and learning experience.

Academic Rigor

Academically most classes aren't't too challenging especially the lower division classes and most GE classes are a joke. If your in a major like engineering or landscape architecture however get ready to do more homework and studying than you've ever done before.

Tips for prospective students

Tuition prices are almost always on the rise it seems, just know you'll be paying more your last year than you do your first year.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is a beautiful very green campus. It has good school community and spirit bust most students commute and don't always stay on campus to participate in campus activities. The learning environment is very friendly and the technology is usually pretty up to date.

Heather from LA Canada, CA

01/27/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I always feel very safe on campus.

Greek Life

Go through the recruitment process. Even if you aren't going to join, at least meet people during recruitment and find out if you really want to join or not. Going Greek was one of the best decisions I made at Cal Poly.

What to do for fun

If you have a car, the possibilities are endless.

Food and Dining

There is only one dining hall and it does not offer the best food, but it is nice to sometimes have a meal prepared for you. The restaurants on campus are good to have also.

Dorm Life

It is a lot of fun living in the dorms and it is a great way to make friends.

Academic Rigor

It depends on your major and the classes you take, but personally as an Animal Science major, the rigor has been difficult but manageable.

Tips for prospective students

I would suggest getting involved right away in any aspect, whether that is joining a sorority or fraternity, one of the many clubs we have on campus, or an intramural sports team. It will be the best and fastest way to make friends and feel like you belong at Cal Poly.

In three sentences

I love the hands-on learning and experience I have gotten. The diversity of the school is refreshing and the people you will meet have so much to offer. The campus is beautiful and the new facilities they have built are great.

Stephanie from Lake Elsinore, CA

there are ALOT of clubs on campus, you name it and there is a club for that.

What to do for fun

B.E.A.T does try to do a lot of activities to try and call in the students just give it a chance and go to events.

Food and Dining

There are plenty of places to eat on campus or around campus.

Tips for prospective students

Get there early because parking can be difficult on Tues and Thurs.

In three sentences

it is a nice school. One of the downfalls is that because it is a commuter school, some people tend to be not as approachable. There is by the way a Facebook page . called cal poly confessions that is really entertaining and addicting.

Felipe from Covina, CA

Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon.
Reviewer has been to campus.

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What to do for fun

There is a lot of open areas and lots of different clubs on campus that do many different things.

Tips for prospective students

Get all of the admission priorities out of the way so that your senior year can be smooth and stress free about college.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is a beautiful campus and the people there a extremely friendly some of whom i know and have heard a lot of good things. If I were to rate this University it would be ranked 1 for me because its been my goal to attend this University to learn as much as I can from the professors there so that my restaurant can be sucessful when it opens.

Celeste from Hesperia, CA

03/29/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

The campus is big on safety especially on the women's self defense class that they have and the police call systems placed around the school in case of an emergency that directs automatically to the campus police.

Food and Dining

The food and dinging is really diverse in different types of foods that is offered all over campus.

Dorm Life

The dorm life is decent if you're used to living with a lot of people who can be like your best friends but they can also be just people you don't want to meet again.

Academic Rigor

The academic rigor is much more than expected sometimes when there are professors that give you either a pass or a fail if you just miss one little assignment in class.

Tips for prospective students

Be prepared to take on all of the amount of work that might pile on itself really quickly without you even noticing it.

In three sentences

It is an amazingly beautiful school that has an amazing Japanese and Rose garden. It expects students to pride themselves in no plagiarism at all. Amazing how it takes pride in hands on learning for literally every class which is really cool.

If you stay focuses and dedicated it will not be difficult to pass any classes.

Tips for prospective students

Always follow deadlines because if you miss them you might end up having to wait a long time for the next opportunity. Always go to class because you never know when you might miss something important.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is a great school that helps students succeed. I have been here for one quarter and I am impressed with how fast they process everything. I received my final grades in less then a week and when I turn in important paper work in they make it a priority to process it right away.

Karen from Los Angeles, CA

The hot dog caper! At the beginning of the year they give free hot dogs to all students! You get free soda/water and chips and they have veggie dogs for those who are vegetarian!

What to do for fun

Join clubs! There is always something going on you just have to look around or join clubs.

Tips for prospective students

Get to class a little earlier because parking is horrible sometimes and you also want to get good seating because some professors don't assign a seating chart.

In three sentences

Cal Poly is a commuter school that has a mixture of different students. I like that everyone here is kind to one another and is willing to help you out if you need help. The advisers here are also very amazing, they are willing to help you out and talk to you in you ever need anything.

Marissa from Brea, CA

09/20/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Clubs and Activities

My friends say that there are a couple 18+ clubs around the Pomona area that different clubs will have events at throughout the year. Obviously Frats are always having parties, so there's never a problem there. Join a club and I'm sure your social life won't be as bland as mine is.

Great for these types of students

Get educated about the 4-Year Pledge Program! If you're a dedicated student that took AP Classes in High School this program is definitely for you. As a First Year I received priority registration that normally you would only receive if you are a 3rd or 4th Year. Your class registration date is literally 2 weeks in advance from the general student body. Honestly Cal Poly is a good fit for anyone. There's so much diversity, that you're bound to find somewhere to fit in.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

At the beginning of each year there's a big event called Bronco Fusion. Find your classes in the day time, explore some booths from different clubs and eat some good food. At night there's a big concert and some other fun stuff to do. At the end of each quarter during Finals Week, people line up to stomp in the middle of the gazebo in the Rose Garden for good luck. You'll learn more about that during Orientation. I'm sure there's more.. I just don't know all about them.

Bang for the buck

In comparison to UCs and Out of State Schools the Cal-State Tuition is Very well priced. I'm a commuter, so I don't pay for rent or dorms making my tuition especially low. I think I pay right around $2000 a quarter for Tuition, which comes out to about $6000 a year if you don't do Summer Session. Summer classes tend to be Very expensive because the government doesn't fund us well for Summer Classes. Books are reasonable, if you rent. Rent from anyone, Amazon, Chegg you name it. It's always cheaper than the on campus Book Store. Personally I'm not a believer in the big-name college. So just in general, I'd like to think I'm getting the same education that my friends that are going to UC's are, but at a cheaper price. Also CPP is California PolyTECHnic University at Pomona, which means we're all about hands-on education. For example, as a Hospitality Major one of my classes is working at the on campus restaurant or hotel for a quarter. I'm also required to have 800+ hours of Professional Work Experience in order to get my degree. Cal Poly also hosts job fairs, their own Career Center and an online job board to help you with your resume or set you up with different job opportunities. So if you look at it that way, I think we're just as good as any UC. It's also not about What school you go to it's about what you Do there... That's the big idea.

What to do for fun

There's a short hike up the hill to the CPP Letters. Different clubs paint the letters throughout the year. Visit the Farm Store across the street and the Lyle Center for Regenerative Studies. Go biking around the suites or go work out in the new fitness center.

Food and Dining

Food at the Dining Hall I ate at during Orientation was decent. Don't ever expect to go on a diet. They have a salad bar, but I don't remember their entree's being healthy. If you want to just eat on campus for lunch like I do, there are a lot more options. Carl's Jr, Taco Bell, Panda Express, a Salad Bar and small convenience store with snacks and scantrons next to the quad. I Love the Salad Bar, you can build your own salad and then pay by the oz. $5 for an entire large to-go container of salad. In the Student Center there's Round Table, Sushi, Qdoba, Subway and Peet's Coffee. Also the Poly Trolley is definitely amazing. It's the school's food truck run by students, they make tacos, breakfast burritos, and homemade potato chips. I highly recommend the Greek Style Chips <3 They also sell a lot of Starbucks drinks as well as. Starbucks in the library is perfect for night classes and early morning study sessions. There's also a little hidden coffee stand next to the Environmental Design building. More Starbucks coffee and doughnuts in the morning. I also have to put in a good word for the Restaurant at Kellogg Ranch up at the Collins College. I've personally never eaten there, but as a Hospitality Student I'll probably be taking some classes there in the next few years. Run entirely by Hospitality Students, the RKR is the epitome of fine dining on the college campus. A good place for a fancy dinner or date, or special celebration. Maybe a little out of the college student budget, but definitely a good place to take your parents if they ever visit. We've had a few different events where RKR catered, and the food was always up to standard.

Dorm Life

I commute, and only stayed in the dorms for 2 nights during orientation and visited some friends during the school year, so my impression of the dorms is brief. The dorms have small study rooms at the ends of each hall, but they're not like Library Study rooms that you can reserve. They can be easily over-ridden by group projects. Our dorms are small and old, but as a public state school you can't expect much. Closet space is small obviously but each person get's a desk. My friend was able to have a printer in her room, as well as room for her makeup and other electronics.

Academic Rigor

Easy for me so far, but I was prepared in high school with many AP/Honors Classes. Also I haven't gotten into higher level classes within my major, or the higher level GE's.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved and be friendly. As a First Year I had 2 jobs for most of the time I was going to school full time. Because of this, I didn't have the time to join clubs or get involved in other campus activities. It was also difficult for me to make friends because I commuted and wasn't on campus for the most part. One of my professors taught at several different colleges, and he said Cal Poly Students tend to be more anti-social than students in other colleges. The Quarter system is great academically, but you only see your classmates for 10 weeks at a time, which makes it very easy for you to sit in your little corner and be anti-social.

In three sentences

Comfortable campus with quiet study areas when you need them. So far, most of my professors have been reasonable. With the 4-Year Pledge I received/will continue to receive Priority Registration as long as I stick with my major and keep my grades up.

E.J from Pico Rivera, CA

Joining Greek life is like joining a second family away from hope, everyone helps you get through everything and its an awesome way to make lifelong friends and connections.

Great for these types of students

Fast paced, creative students that are ready to lead and take charge.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

Every tuesday and thursday there is an hour from like 12 to 1 that is called U-hour where students get to get involved in campus activities and class isn't assigned during those times. Try to check out the BRIC climbing wall, the japanese garden and the rose garden.

What to do for fun

Cal Poly Pomona isn't really known as a party school but there are many things to do that can be fun. Every first friday of the month the school has an event called first friday, its a night vent where theres music, food and performances. Then there is also bronco fusion which is an event where new students get introduced to the campus life, and older students. There is also food and music and even celebrity performances like the one more recently, Chance the Rapper which may I add was a free concert. CPP get many advantages like discounts to movies, amusements parks, restaurants and fashion stores. And I'm not going to lie there are parties here and there.

Food and Dining

There are many places where you can grab a bite to eat. There are places like subway, Carl's Jr., Panda Express and even Starbucks and Jamba Juice. There is also a Food Market that sells freshly made sandwiches and salads.

Dorm Life

It can be difficult to be able to dorm here if you don't take care of all dorming fees and stuff with time. However if you do get the chance to dorm, that will actually help you transition in to the college life more easily since you'll have more opportunities to make friends with students that are going through the same transition.

Academic Rigor

Our college motto has always been, Learn by doing and that is exactly what we do. CPP currently runs on the quarter system which can many times be scary, since that usually means it will be fast paced, and that's exactly what it is, however, if you are dedicated and don't mind being on top of things, CPP is the place for you. The courses are organized in a way to challenge you and encourage you to be hands on, however, don't let that scare you, what that practically means is that the CPP faculty is just making sure to help you be the best at whatever field you are pursuing.

Tips for prospective students

Try to join clubs and organizations to meet people that will help you transition into the college environment. Don't be scared, college can be great once you get used to it, especially if you make friends and get out there.

In three sentences

CPP is an amazing school, with an awesome soccer team. The campus is beautiful and very peaceful. Thera are many resources that are available to students and almost everyone you meet is very nice/friendly.

Lisa from El Monte, CA

12/20/2014

Reviewer is A past student here.

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Campus Safety

The on campus police department has an escort service for those who have last night classes and would like a walking buddy to escort said person to their car. The escort may sometimes even drive you to your car, if you have parked far away.

Clubs and Activities

There are many clubs on campus that range from the specific to the broad. Career oriented clubs help you prepare for interviews with graduate schools for your major. Hobby clubs bring together people with the same interests. Culture clubs teach students about certain cultures and traditions.

What to do for fun

The BRIC is the newest addition to campus. It houses many extracurricular activities that test you physically. There are classes (swimming, rock climbing, etc.) that test your physical fitness and endurance. It's a great place to work out and have fun. For sports fans, there are intramural games. ASI also plans quarterly events like bingo night, masquerades, drag shows, theater productions (by Drama department) and other student-oriented activities.

Food and Dining

There are many places to eat on campus. The BSC (Bronco Student Center) where you can find Subway, Qdoba, Peet's Coffee, Freshens, Round Table Pizza and Poly Fresh Marketplace. The Campus Center houses a Taco Bell, Panda Express, Carl's Jr., a Salad/Soup Bar, a mini mart, and International Grounds coffee house. There is also a Denny's and Einstein Bros Bagel shop located on campus. Near the dorms is the Los Olivos Dining Commons. Here you can find a buffet style dining area that serves healthy and nutritious food, but also exotic foods. This dining area is open to the public as well as students.

Dorm Life

Living in a dorm can be a blessing, but also a burden. The rooms are fairly clean when you move in, but by the time the quarter is ending, it's a mess. Living in the dorms can be costly, money-wise and mentally. The cost of living in the dorms can rival that or exceed the amount of quarterly tuition. If you are from out of state, you might have to bite the bullet and get a job to pay for the rest of the rent. You can also look around for nearby apartments who are looking for a roommate or renting out a room. Dorm life can be hectic and crampy. Not only do you share a room, but you also share a bathroom, with 20+ other people. All dorms are equipped with a residential advior who can answer any and all questions you might have about the dorm, the best places to eat or where the nearest printer is. Laundry rooms are located on the first floor of most dorms. There are certain hours of the day where there is a mandatory quiet time. That means no loud music or disruptions during this time. Quiet hours are great for studying and doing homework, though you can do other things during this time so long as you are not disturbing anyone else.

Academic Rigor

The pace of learning and doing in college is not what you have been accustomed to in high school. There's a sense of urgency to absorb as much knowledge as possible before you have to take a test that will define your rank among your classmates. Don't procrastinate on assignments that have a variable expiration date. It's easy to forget a project or a paper that is due 4 to even 7 weeks later. Make the time to study and get a good night's rest. Most campuses have tutoring programs where you can get some help if you're having trouble. Don't wait on getting help. Most professors can be categorized into two different categories. The first are powerpoint instructors with cumulative tests. These professors expect you to be able to recall information taught to you from day one. The level of difficulty varies from okay to difficult, but doable. The second are powerpoint instructors with sectioned tests. Teaching through powerpoint is an easy trick to load you up with lots of information, but test you only until a certain point. There are also professors who will teach you many things and give you a take-home final. These teachers are the best, but they can also be the worst. With a take-home final you have an extended amount of time to finish the test with the help of textbooks, past homework assignments and friends, but you tend to over think your answers that you were previously so sure of.

Tips for prospective students

Definitely go on a campus tour. The campus is always growing and changing. There's always something new to see. Another tip would be to space out your GE classes and mix them with your required major classes. By doing this, you'll create a cushion between the hard classes with a fast pace and the regular classes with a brisk pace. Get lots of sleep. All nighters are often depicted in movies and TV as something typical in college, but if you manage your time well, you can get a good night sleep and do better than those who pull all nighters. Make time to study, but also time to kick back and relax. Not everything is due the next day, but don't procrastinate either. Get help with assignments from a tutor. Most college campuses have free tutoring services to help you with your assignments.

In three sentences

My years at CPP have been the best portion of my life. I have had many new and exciting experiences that I otherwise would not have had if I turned down my acceptance. There's so much diversity on campus that it feels like it is its very own microcosm.

Luisa from Los Angeles, CA

12/28/2014

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

There have been reports of creeps here and there, but we have a campus police station that is very easy to reach and they respond quickly. If you're every far from your dorm and it's late and you don't feel safe, you can call the campus police and they'll give you a ride to your dorm.

Greek Life

I'm not in a sorority so I'm not too well-informed on this topic, but they are very prevalent. I have a couple of friends in fraternities and sororities and they seem to be really committed and enjoy it. The only thing is, unlike other campuses, we're not allowed to have official houses for each sorority or fraternity, like in the traditional sense where you see in movies.

Clubs and Activities

I really enjoy our club diversity and I feel that there's something out there for every group. There's cultural clubs, major related clubs, and even an anime club!

Great for these types of students

Cal Poly Pomona is great for students who love a hands-on approach to things and enjoy new perspectives because our campus is quite diverse and it's good to be open minded.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

I'm not sure if it's very unusual, but something I always do with my friends is we hike to the CPP letters at night. Clubs often get together to paint the letters different colors and such and it's pretty cool. It's pretty fun to hike up there at night and tell scary stories.

Bang for the buck

You are well taken care of if you're living on campus and if you're just enrolled as a student, there are still many nice features our campus offers such as the newly opened gym, but in the end, what student doesn't wish it was cheaper?

What to do for fun

There are nearby boba places and food places where you can go to relax after a midterm or even study. If you have a car, your opportunities are greater and you can go to other nice dining places.

Food and Dining

There's a dining hall for all students living on campus that I thought was great. Many of my friends got tired of the food, but when that happens, there are many food places around campus where you can purchase food.

Dorm Life

Dorm life could be a gamble. In the end, I was able to make an amazing group of friends that I see myself keeping in touch with for the rest of college and the rest of life. The roommate I started off not liking became my closest friend in the end and someone I know I can count on, but I heard not everybody was as lucky. Fortunately, you can request to change your room if things don't work out.

Academic Rigor

Maybe it's just me, but nearly all my classes have been challenging. I can't stress enough how different it is from high school. Maybe for some it was easy, but for me I am still struggling with finding what study methods are best for me. However, it isn't all bad. There are good teachers along the way who make themselves readily available for those who need help.

Tips for prospective students

University school work is very different from high school work. In college, a higher expectation is set for students and funny enough, second chances aren't always given. I had to learn that the hard way. I wouldn't do so good in a test and would expect the teacher to announce a make-up. Nope. Never happened. All I'm saying is that your work ethic needs to be at its best and you should have a goal in mind to help you stay motivated during school, especially those tough classes when you feel like you want to quit.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona's motto is Learn by Doing, and I'll be honest, at first I wasn't too sure what this meant, but starting my second year in the university, I can clearly see how it's greatly incorporated in a lot of the classes. For example, nearly all science classes come paired up with a lab class in which you apply the techniques mentioned in your lecture class. Aside from the curriculum, the staff is pretty great and I've been lucky enough to have really caring teachers for my classes.

Ryan from Santa Paula, CA

02/27/2015

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Campus Safety

I think the campus is really safe actually. I never feel unsafe even at night or at the middle of the night. The campus has those blue light stations that you can press in case of emergency. There's always someone walking around the campus in the middle of the night and it really doesn't feel unsafe. I have night classes and am totally comfortable. Nothing happens here but bikes are stolen quite a bit.

Greek Life

We have plenty of greek life here. Rush week is popular and there's a lot of people that get involved with frats/sororities. The frat houses are scattered around Pomona and they do host events and parties.

Clubs and Activities

We have over 300 clubs here! There's so much to get involved in! Intramural sports are a fun way to get involved. The BRIC is our new gym and workout facility that opened last year (2014). Really cool and everything's new in there.

Great for these types of students

Engineering, Hospitality, Science, Business majors Students who are looking for a highly reputable university that also is affordable and has a pretty decent social life on campus at the same time.

Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

A lot of people like to hike up to the CPP Letters on the hill overlooking campus.

Bang for the buck

Tuition is actually pretty cheap compared to most schools especially since Cal Poly is a really reputable name and university. Housing is pretty steep but it's definitely worth it if you're a first year looking for the real college experience.

What to do for fun

Like I said, the campus is DEAD on the weekends. Sometimes on the weekends there's events but not much. During the week, there's always stuff happening at the dorms so it's never a problem. There are plenty of off campus parties surprisingly, but you need to know the right people to find out about them. All else aside, the city of Pomona is pretty dead as well and is actually pretty ghetto so there's nothing to do around. Downtown Pomona is actually pretty cool to explore and there's concerts at the theater there a lot. A lot of students have Disneyland passes and always go since it's only 20 minutes away. Raging Waters is 5 minutes away and the LA County Fair is 5 minutes away too. Downtown LA is about 25 minutes away and is actually surprisingly easy to get to if you don't have a car as there's a bus direct from downtown Pomona to LA so LA is always an option.

Food and Dining

The campus dining as a whole is off the charts awesome. We have more fast food places here on campus than I think most schools. There's a Carls Jr, Panda Express, Round Table, Taco Bell, Starbucks, Subway, Peet's Coffee, Einstein's Bagels, Qdoba, Jamba Juice, Denny's. The dining commons for on campus residents is pretty great although most people get tired of having it all the time which is understandable so be ready for that. Regardless, it's buffet style and there's SO many options everyday. I'm a vegan too and I can say that the vegetarian/vegan options are pretty good here, but my organization is constantly working with dining to expand on them. They just added two new items for veggies! Also, residents are allowed to use their meal plan at Denny's too on campus (for items up to a certain $$ amount) which is nice when you're sick of the dining commons.

Dorm Life

There's really nothing to complain about here. We have the traditional old school dorms with communal living and it's a pretty awesome experience. Is CPP a 'party' school? No but we don't all stay locked up in our dorm rooms studying like some people make it sound like. I have neighbors that party in their dorms everyday, blast music, have their doors open to socialize, I have neighbors that chill and play videogames all day, and I have quiet neighbors. Everyone here is so diverse. If partying is your scene, you'll find it. If chilling and not partying is your scene, you'll find that. The only complaint I have about dorms here is that like half the people that live here will go home on the weekends which makes the campus pretty dead on the weekends. Live here though. It's an awesome experience and there's always events and social programs in the halls to take part in.

Academic Rigor

It's not hard but it can definitely depend on your major. All the GE classes are a pretty good variety. Some are definitely harder but there are also a good number of easy classes too. Some majors are more intensive than others. Architecture students here are worked like dogs and the ones I know never have time to do anything. The science and engineering majors are strong programs as well but can also be pretty rigorous depending on the classes you take. That being said, these programs are strong and reputable. The other majors are really good as well but aren't as intensive I don' think.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved as much as you can as there's opportunities to all over the place here. This is the type of school where you get what you put into it. If you don't make an effort to attend events, join clubs and meet people you'll complain and blame the school. Live on campus for at least your first year. It might be pricey, but gives you so much school spirit, a lot of friends that will last you all four years, and memories. A LOT of people commute and it sucks but a lot live on campus and guess who has the better time?

In three sentences

A school that feels like a CSU but still feels like a top tier university at the same time.

Symone from San Bernardino, CA

06/19/2015

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Great for these types of students

If you want to pursue a degree in engineering, are looking to run a hotel, have a goal in working with animals, interested in coaching or working with children who need special attention in their motor development this is the school for you. Not only do you get to learn what to do but also HOW to do since this school is based on its polytechnic (teach by doing) style of teaching. This university is ultimately great for anyone who wants to learn what to do and how to do it.

What to do for fun

Cal Poly Pomona offers a lot of outlet for students to take a break from studying and enjoy the campus which can be seen through the end of the quarter events that they put together which sometimes include performances from guest musicians. They also offer a ton of recreational and intramural opportunities for students to participate in through our Bronco Recreational and Intramural Center. Inside the Bronco Student Center there is a game room where students are able to play arcade video games, shoot pool, and play with the system controlled games as well. Some students also find enjoyment hiking up to the CPP letters on the top of a hill to see the school from a greater view or hiking to the Kellogg mansion.

Food and Dining

The campus has a lot of dining options for both on campus and commuting students such as at the Bronco Student Center and the campus center (have recognized fast food choices: Subway, Qdoba, Panda Express, etc), the Poly Trolly (campus food truck), farm store, Dennys, dining hall, Kellogg West (campus restaurant) and other small convenient type shops where you can pick up a snack. The on campus food from the dining hall is not bad and offers a lot of different choices throughout the week for students who eat there daily. Kellogg West is upscale eating where you dine in style and have quality meals (reservations are required).

Dorm Life

I was in a triple dorm my freshman year and had no problems living in that space with two other females. If you are able to keep your area organized and clean, you shouldn't have a problem getting around in your room. Since there are community bathrooms, we had to walk down the hallway in order to shower and take care of our business but it wasn't that big of a deal and it was kind of nice because there was someone there that would come and clean the bathrooms for us,so we never had to worry about it. Each hallway receives a RA at which you are able to consult whenever you experience a problem and need help. If you are ever in need (or want) of getting out of your room, you can always go to the first floor where they have a lounge area for all of the residents with a TV; and the RAs will occasionally put on events where the entire hall can participate and bond at.

Academic Rigor

The administration here can be strict and harsh at times when you are unprepared or unorganized with what you are trying to get done. However, depending upon the major you are pursuing the deans for each department is different and has different regulations for the students that they accept. My major is impacted and even with that I have had positive experiences with the dean and department chair, perhaps because I came to them prepared and with the knowledge of what I needed taken care of.

Tips for prospective students

Get involved on campus and be an active member of clubs or programs that interest you. Learn what the campus has to offer because they often put on events that are very beneficial to those who attend and sometimes even give away free products and services that are available to all students. The campus has a wellness and health center where they often give away free things to students that will help them in class (such as an iClicker) as well as doctor visit walk-ins and even x-rays. Also, there is a student government that you can become a part of as well as cultural centers.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona has a lot to offer to its students from on campus events, housing, academic help, athletic involvement, and career help. Because this university is based on the polytechnic standard of teaching, as in learning by doing, there are a lot of programs that students are able to receive hands on experience; such as working with the farm animals and horses in their units, working at the on- campus hotel and restaurant, as well as being able to work with children at the daycare and special motor development center. This campus is a great fit for anyone looking for hands on experience, close to internships in LA, focused on getting a good education, and interested in being involved in many campus programs and clubs.

Nicole from Temple City, CA

07/07/2015

Reviewer is A current student here.

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Food and Dining

The food at Los Olivos, the dining hall, is buffet style offering different types of foods from the typical sandwiches and salads, to American foods and Mexican foods. There is a taqueria, Mongolian noodles station, and the Comfort Food Zone. The chicken nuggets are bomb here! Aside from Los Olivos, students also have the option of eating at the Denny's and Einstein's Bagels. At the Bronco Student Center, there is a Subway, Peet's Coffee and Tea, Qdoba, and Freshens. At the Marketplace there is a Panda Express, Taco Bell, Carl's Jr. and Jamba Juice. Scattered across campus are Starbucks and Pony Express markets.

Dorm Life

The freshman residence halls are a little worn down and in need of TLC. But it is easy to get the so called Freshman Experience by living in these halls. Everyone is helpful and friendly, from the Resident Advisors to the Resident Life Coordinator to the staff. They are all there to help you and make the Freshman Experience and living at the dorms memorable. Overall, it is worth living on campus for at least your first year. Not only will you meet many new people and make friends, but it opens up opportunities to get to know others better and be a part of the CPP family.

Academic Rigor

The professors really do care about student education and push us to do our best. Going to office hours and forming study groups really help and creates networking between the student and professor and with other students. The academic courses are not necessary rigorous to the point where they are not manageable. Each professor has his own teaching style and grading system, so students must be able to adapt to each class. As long as you put your best effort and get to know your professors, all classes are passable.

In three sentences

Cal Poly Pomona is a very diverse campus that focuses the education around the motto, Learn by Doing. This holds true in that class sizes are small compared to other universities and the professors teach hands on with the class. Overall, CPP is a beautiful campus with friendly students and helpful faculty.

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